Data collected from 2022 through the end of November 2023 shows a concerted effort by the local health department, community organizations, and the State drove fatal overdose numbers down across Washington County.
Last week the Washington County Health Department (WCHD) reflected on the counties harm reduction efforts while cautiously celebrating an almost 22 percent drop in fatal overdoses over a one year period. This meaningful victory for local communities and public health workers is the result of a handful of programs that have been underway in the behavioral health services division of the health department for many years. A combination of federal, state, and local funding was pivotal to the programs success along with team members being present in the community everyday.
Vicki Sterling, Director of Behavioral Health Services for the WCHD reflected on the county's strategy:
"This comprehensive approach underscores Washington County's commitment to combating opioid overdoses and saving lives in the community," said Sterling.
Initiatives included:
- Increasing access to Naloxone and training
- Adding crisis stabilization beds at Meritus Medical Center
- Bolstering peer support programs and mobile crisis response units
Read the full press release and details about the WCHD harm reduction strategies.
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