Project Summary:
The goal of the PATH Conference is to strengthen Wisconsin’s healthcare workforce by enhancing knowledge, skills, and collaboration across prevention and treatment systems. The anticipated impact is improved prevention strategies, introduction to new initiatives, more effective treatment engagement, and stronger community-based responses to substance use and mental health challenges, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes across Wisconsin.
This event addresses critical professional development needs, including rapidly evolving drug trends, increased demand for harm reduction approaches, workforce burnout, gaps in coordination between prevention and treatment sectors, and licensure continuing education requirements. Professionals require updated, evidence-informed practices and practical tools to respond effectively to complex behavioral health needs.
Participants will be able to:
- Analyze current and emerging drug trends and their implications for practice
- Apply evidence-based prevention, harm reduction, and engagement strategies, including motivational interviewing and innovative treatment initiatives
- Strengthen skills in clinical supervision, ethical considerations, and best practices in prevention and treatment settings
- Develop strategies for building and sustaining community coalitions
- Identify approaches to support caregiver wellness and reduce burnout
The conference content is delivered through two targeted tracks (Prevention and Treatment) with breakout sessions to deepen learning. Expert speakers bring subject matter expertise in drug trends, harm reduction, clinical practice, and community engagement. Interactive workshops, case-based discussions, and local resource sharing ensure participants can translate knowledge into practice. This structure supports skill-building, interdisciplinary collaboration, and immediate application in professional settings.
This conference will be promoted to healthcare organizations in the Central Wisconsin area, including the two largest systems, Aspirus Health and Sanford Health - Marshfield Clinic, as well as regional health departments, health educator networks, mental healthcare organizations, treatment facilities, and prevention coalitions in Marathon, Lincoln, Langlade, Taylor, Price, and surrounding counties. We expect attendees to include health care workers, mental and behavioral health clinicians, social workers, primary care providers, psychologists, psychiatrists, patient care advocates, case managers and care coordinators, public health nurses, and health educators.
Community Partner: North Central AHEC