Ashtabula County was selected as one of 67 communities across Ohio, Kentucky, Massachusetts and New York to participate in a national study to reduce opioid-related overdose deaths.
The HEALing Communities Study was launched by the National Institutes of Health and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. It is being led in Ohio by the Ohio State University, with additional support from Case Western Reserve University, University of Cincinnati, Ohio University and University of Toledo.
Ashtabula County’s Substance Abuse Leadership Team, in conjunction with the Ashtabula County Mental Health Recovery Services Board, is responsible for implementing the study in the county.
Kaitie Park, who has been the coordinator of the county’s Prevention Coalition for five years has taken on the additional role of Community Engagement Coordinator of the study.
“The goal of the study is to reduce opioid-related overdose deaths by 40 percent over the course of three years by using evidence-based practices,” Park said.
“Those practices include: opioid overdose education and naloxone distribution programs, prescription drug monitoring programs, behavioral therapies, recovery support services and FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder.”
Unfortunately, these evidence-based practices may be unavailable, underused, or difficult to access in many communities. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health estimates that 2.1 million Americans have opioid use disorder, yet fewer than 20% receive the specialty care they need. By participating in the HEALing Communities Study, Ashtabula County will have increased access to these practices.
The first component of the HEALing Communities Study is a communication campaign to increase awareness, access and availability for naloxone (Narcan). The campaign also aims to address stigma by educating the community that opioid use disorder is a disease, that anyone can develop an opioid use disorder, and those suffering from it deserve the best possible medical care.
“The first phase of the campaign focuses on naloxone. Commonly referred to as Narcan, naloxone can save a person’s life if they are overdosing on opioids,” said Park. “We want the community to know that anyone — EMS, firefighters, a family member or friend, and community members — can be a first responder and give naloxone to someone who is overdosing from opioids.”
To learn more about the study and how to get involved, visit: HEALTogetherOH.org/Ashtabula
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