Advocacy & Systems Navigation Flashcards

What is the primary role of a Certified Recovery Specialist when advocating for a person in recovery within a healthcare system?

Answer: To help the individual understand their rights and navigate available services

A CRS advocates by empowering individuals to understand their rights and helping them access and navigate systems—not by replacing clinical decision-making.

Which of the following best describes 'systems navigation' in the context of peer recovery support?

Answer: Helping individuals understand and access community, healthcare, and social service systems

Systems navigation means guiding individuals through complex service networks so they can access the support and resources they need.

A person in recovery is denied housing due to their history of substance use disorder. What is the most appropriate first step for the CRS?

Answer: Inform the individual of fair housing laws and connect them to legal aid resources

The CRS should inform the individual of their rights under fair housing law and link them to legal aid, empowering self-advocacy.

Which federal law protects individuals in recovery from discrimination in employment on the basis of a disability related to substance use disorder?

Answer: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The ADA protects individuals with a history of substance use disorder from employment discrimination when they are no longer currently using illegal drugs.

When navigating the behavioral health system, a CRS should prioritize which of the following?

Answer: Supporting the individual's self-determination and informed choice about their own care

Recovery-oriented practice centers on self-determination, meaning individuals have the right to make informed choices about their own care.

A CRS notices that a community clinic consistently provides lower quality care to individuals with substance use disorder compared to other patients. This is an example of:

Answer: Systemic stigma and discriminatory practice

Providing unequal care based on a person's substance use history reflects systemic stigma and discrimination that the CRS can work to address through advocacy.

When advocating for policy changes that benefit people in recovery, which action is most aligned with the CRS role?

Answer: Sharing the collective voice of peers to inform policymakers about recovery needs

Effective advocacy uses the collective voice of lived experience to educate and influence policymakers about the needs of the recovery community.