Reflections from the Rockies: TNSAM at the 56th Annual ASAM Conference

April 24–27, 2025 | Gaylord Rockies Resort, Aurora, Colorado

The crisp mountain air of Colorado wasn’t the only thing that invigorated attendees at the 56th Annual ASAM Conference this year. Held at the stunning Gaylord Rockies Resort, this year’s conference marked a turning point—not just in location, but in tone, in momentum, and in the continued evolution of addiction medicine.

The Tennessee Society of Addiction Medicine (TNSAM) was proud to be represented among the over 2,500 clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and advocates in attendance. Our members returned not only enriched but energized, bearing insights, best practices, and a renewed sense of urgency to address the challenges facing our communities back home.

A Conference of Substance

More than 60 general sessions and over 100 poster presentations anchored this year’s conference. But what set this gathering apart was its focus on breaking barriers—barriers to treatment, to access, to equity, and to compassion.

From the opening keynote to the final panel, the throughline was clear: addiction medicine must not only advance in science but in systems—with equity, accessibility, and innovation at the forefront.

Among the sessions that deeply resonated with our TNSAM members:

Breaking Barriers: Maternal OUD Treatment

Dr. Jessica Young of Vanderbilt University Medical Center led a vital discussion on engaging pregnant and postpartum individuals in treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD). Her emphasis on peer recovery specialists, SMART goal frameworks, and patient-centered care models offered tools our Tennessee programs can begin applying immediately.

The Open-Access Model for Methadone Initiation

Dr. Jeanette Tetrault and colleagues from Yale shared an inspiring model allowing for same-day methadone initiationregardless of a patient’s ability to pay. The model’s bold, harm-reduction-first approach mirrors some of the work being tested in Tennessee’s urban corridors—and provides an evidence-based north star for broader adoption.

Youth Engagement and Extended-Release Medications

Dr. Marc Fishman’s team emphasized the need for developmentally appropriate strategies to improve treatment retention among young people. TNSAM is already in active dialogue about how these insights could inform outreach and engagement efforts for adolescents and transitional-age youth in our region.

A Space for Open Dialogue

This year’s ASAM Conference also served as a platform for long-overdue conversations. The session “Cannabinoids and Pregnancy: A Vital Discourse” demonstrated ASAM’s willingness to welcome nuance, debate, and evolving science—something we deeply value at TNSAM. The presence of both clinical rigor and respectful discourse was a breath of fresh air and reinforced our belief in evidence-led compassion.

Beyond the Lectures: Building a Collective Future

The Gaylord Rockies Resort provided not just a conference venue, but a sense of place. Conversations spilled into hallways, lobbies, and over shared meals. Many of us from TNSAM reconnected with colleagues from around the country—some new, some long-trusted. We shared what’s working in Tennessee and learned what’s taking root elsewhere.

It was clear: while our regions may differ, our mission is shared.

A Word of Thanks

We extend our deepest gratitude to ASAM for hosting such a well-organized and impactful event. To the speakers, organizers, volunteers, and attendees—thank you. And to our own TNSAM members who participated in panels, led discussions, or simply listened with intent—your presence mattered.

A Letter From Dr. Zotos

Looking Ahead

The work continues. But it continues with more clarity, more community, and more conviction.

TNSAM looks forward to integrating what we learned into the programs, policies, and partnerships across Tennessee. We believe that conferences like ASAM are not just moments of professional development—they are catalysts for lasting change.

Until next year, onward.

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For those who couldn’t attend, we encourage you to explore session recordings and connect with TNSAM leadership if you’d like to be more involved in future national representation.