News
Regional Conference on Addiction Convenes for 16th Year
The Hilton Kansas City Airport is the site of the 16th annual Midwest Conference on Problem Gambling and Substance Abuse, taking place from June 19-21. This year’s theme, “Reflections and Destinations,” encompasses a universal goal shared by all healthcare providers in their commitment to improving the health and well-being of the people and communities they serve. A look back to what began as a training opportunity in 2003 has evolved into a conference focused on bringing the most current knowledge, research, policy, best practice, and treatment protocol for problem gambling and substance use disorders to professionals in the Midwest.
“We are still in the midst of a nationwide opioid crisis, we are just beginning to understand the impact of gaming on our youth and young adults, and states are legalizing sports betting at record rates,” said Carol Spiker, president of the Midwest Consortium on Problem Gambling and Substance Abuse. “Although we have great understanding for addiction, the ever-evolving public health challenges we encounter daily keep us searching for more effective ways in which to address addiction and move individuals and families into recovery. This year’s conference hopes to provide our attendees with the tools and resources they need when faced with these challenges,” said Spiker.
The Midwest Consortium represents a five-state region – Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma – but attendees from across the country and internationally both present at and attend the conference each year. For a complete list of workshop sessions, presenters and conference information, visit MCPGSA.org