The ISSUP Bahamas Chapter, in partnership with the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre, hosted its inaugural Universal Treatment Curriculum (UTC) Substance Use Disorder (SUD) ECHO Training Program – Cohort 5. The training, which also included UPC 10: Introduction to Prevention, UPC 21: Trauma -Informed Care, and Introduction to Gambling Addiction , was conducted from 23rd February to 6th May 2026.
The program brought together 22 healthcare professionals and multidisciplinary participants from Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre with the aim of strengthening knowledge, clinical skills, and competencies in the prevention, treatment, and management of substance use disorders and related behavioral addictions.
The training was delivered using the ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) model, which combines virtual learning, case-based discussions, mentorship, and collaborative engagement to enhance professional capacity and improve patient outcomes. The hybrid format allowed participants to engage in both online and face-to-face learning experiences, fostering greater interaction, teamwork, and practical application of knowledge.
Participants successfully completed a series of evidence-based modules covering key areas such as:
- The Science of Addiction
- Screening, Assessment, and Diagnosis
- Treatment Planning
- Counselling and Motivational Interviewing
- Ethical Practices and Professionalism
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Relapse Prevention and Recovery Support
- Co-occurring Disorders
- Gambling and Substance Use Disorders
- Community-Based Treatment Approaches
- Introduction to Prevention Science
The program encouraged interactive participation, peer learning, teach-back presentations, and the practical application of evidence-based approaches within clinical and community settings. Participants were exposed to current research, best practices, and internationally recognized standards for the treatment and prevention of substance use disorders.
Benefits and Outcomes of the Program
The UTC SUD ECHO Training Program yielded several positive outcomes and benefits for participants and the healthcare system, including:
- Enhanced knowledge and clinical competence in addiction treatment and prevention
- Improved understanding of trauma-informed and patient-centered care
- Strengthened counselling, communication, and motivational interviewing skills
- Increased confidence in screening, assessment, and treatment planning• Greater awareness of gambling addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders
- Promotion of interdisciplinary collaboration and teamwork among healthcare professionals
- Improved capacity to deliver compassionate, evidence-based care
- Development of leadership and presentation skills through teach-back sessions
- Strengthened professional networking and mentorship opportunities Increased readiness to implement prevention and recovery-oriented services within healthcare and community settings
The program represented a significant step toward building a more knowledgeable and skilled workforce capable of addressing substance use disorders and behavioral addictions within The Bahamas. It also reinforced the commitment of ISSUP Bahamas Chapter and Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre to advancing quality addiction treatment, prevention, recovery support, and public health education.
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