Actualities in addiction medicine training program

Abstract

The complementary study program for the Addiction Medicine certificate offers a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach, blending both educational content and practical skills needed to provide medical care for patients with substance use disorders or behavioral addictions. This presentation highlights the Romanian new experience in developing this training program , but also the new updated curricula. This program is designed for psychiatrists and other medical professionals due to the highly interdisciplinary nature of treating addiction-related disorders. It combines theoretical lessons with seminars, clinical case discussions, and hands-on internships, fostering an interactive learning environment aimed at not only imparting knowledge but also promoting a deep understanding of addiction’s impact on improving the quality of care in this field. Over the 15 months, participants are engaged in 10 theoretical modules (30 hours/week) and practical internships at university and outpatient clinics (2 weeks – 10 days of 6 hours each). At the end of the program, participants are evaluated on the knowledge and skills they've acquired. The first group of 32 trainees completed the program in February 2025, while the second group, starting in January 2025, is participating in the program across two university medical centers- Iasi and Bucharest, with 54 doctors from various medical specialties. Romanian substance use disorders and behavioral addictions are widespread and underscore the growing demand for specialized education in addiction medicine. This educational initiative is vital to building a more comprehensive, interdisciplinary Romanian healthcare system capable of tackling the complexities of addiction in a compassionate and informed manner.