Decrease the number of opioid-related overdose deaths in Howard County by 10% by 2025
Objective Description
Trend Analysis
Several factors influence the data related to opioid overdoses. There has been a recent decrease in reporting of non-fatal overdoses in the County, likely due to the saturation of naloxone and increasing numbers of those choosing not to report its use. The health department continues to work with providers and community partners to maintain vigilance and education efforts to minimize fatalities. Instead of the usual criminal justice response, police officers can offer to LEAD program for minor eligible offenses. A Case Manager will then meet with the individual to determine their needs and offer support. Services can include peer support; referrals for mental health and substance use disorder services, workforce development, and any identified needed services. This program provides an example of how comprehensive strategies can address overdoses.
Strategies
- Continued partnerships with government agencies and nonprofit groups through the overdose fatality review team.
- Work with stakeholders to assure an adequate network of substance use disorder providers.
- Provision of substance-use disorder or behavioral health counseling for individuals at the Detention Center or Howard House.
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Source: Howard County Health Department