How Toledo Health Department is Tackling the Opioid Crisis
The opioid crisis has become a significant public health issue in the United States. It has claimed thousands of lives, wreaked havoc on families, and strained healthcare resources. Toledo, Ohio, has not been immune to the crisis, but the Toledo Health Department (THD) has been at the forefront of the fight against opioids. In this article, we will explore how THD is tackling the opioid crisis and the impact it is making.
Background
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription pain relievers, synthetic opioids, and heroin. Opioids affect the central nervous system and can produce a sense of euphoria. However, they can also depress the respiratory system, leading to death. The opioid crisis in the United States started in the 1990s when opioids were heavily prescribed to manage pain. Over time, people who became addicted to prescription opioids turned to heroin, which was cheaper and more accessible.
THD’s Response
THD has taken a multi-pronged approach to tackle the opioid crisis. One of the initiatives launched by THD is the Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) program. MAT combines medication and counseling to help individuals with opioid addiction manage their cravings and symptoms of withdrawal. THD has partnered with local healthcare providers to offer MAT services to people in need. In addition, THD has launched the Opioid Overdose Prevention Program (OOPP), which aims to reduce the number of opioid-related deaths in the community. OOPP provides training on the use of naloxone, an overdose-reversing drug, to first responders and community members.
Impact
The initiatives launched by THD have had a significant impact on the community. According to THD, the MAT program has helped many people manage their addiction and stay in treatment. As of 2019, THD’s MAT program had served over 700 clients, and 70% of them remained in treatment after 90 days. OOPP has also had a positive impact on the community. In 2020, OOPP distributed over 4,000 naloxone kits to community members, and over 250 overdose reversals were reported.
Conclusion
The opioid crisis is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to tackle. THD has demonstrated its commitment to fighting the opioid crisis by launching several initiatives aimed at reducing the harm caused by opioids. The MAT program and OOPP are just a few examples of the impactful work being done by THD. It is our collective responsibility to support the efforts of organizations like THD to ensure that individuals struggling with opioid addiction receive the help they need.
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