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In the fall of 2023, Holon Health started providing healthcare services in Tucson, Arizona to people living with substance use disorder who were also involved in the criminal justice system. During our past year of service in Pima County, we’ve had the opportunity to serve hundreds of clients while working alongside other amazing organizations. One of those is the Pima County Health Department.
About the Pima County Health Department
The Pima County Health Department (PCHD) is dedicated to helping residents achieve and maintain optimal levels of wellness, which includes addressing substance use and the opioid epidemic. In 2019, they secured funding for a local overdose fatality review (OFR) team which conducts committee meetings and has reviewed a total of 105 cases. The committee is made up of stakeholders in behavioral health, law enforcement, emergency medicine, substance use treatment facilities, and other relevant parties. They focus on identifying systemic issues, exploring possible interventions, recognizing risk factors, and working to reduce fatal overdoses.
Their efforts are a crucial part of the response to the overdose crisis, which is how Holon Health became connected to their team. After a recent conversation with Mark Person, the Public Health Program Manager at PCHD, and Sara Lind, the Fatality Review Program Coordinator for the Community Mental Health and Addiction (CMHA) Division, we knew we wanted to bring the conversation into a larger arena. So, we’re sharing some of our conversation here.
Substance Use, Harm Reduction, and Hope with Pima County Health Department
Holon Health: First, thank you so much for chatting with us about Pima and the efforts being made to curb substance use and overdose fatalities. Substance use disorder affects people across the world, but how has your team seen substance use disorder (SUD) affect the Pima community?
Sara Lind, PCHD: SUD has a wide-reaching impact on individuals, families, and communities. Those directly affected face emotional, financial, and psychological hardships. Substance use can exacerbate mental health issues, complicating the recovery process and creating a cycle that is difficult to break. And, those struggling with SUD often require emergency care, which places financial strain on our local healthcare system and resources. Substance use also contributes to criminal behavior, which raises public health concerns.
Holon Health: We know it can be hard for those who haven’t experienced addiction to understand. But, this is a community issue. Why should we all care?
Sara Lind: Substance use disorder is a public health issue. By failing to see and address them, we risk placing even greater strain on social services, healthcare, law enforcement, and our community. It’s essential to increase awareness and education to combat stigma and build healthier, safer communities.
Holon Health: Harm reduction–a set of practical strategies aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with drug use–is a big part of the public health conversation these days. At Holon, we’ve seen this approach work. Have you seen something similar?
Sara Lind: Yes! Harm reduction education is crucial as it emphasizes the health and safety of individuals rather than focusing solely on eliminating use. Its primary goal is to mitigate the negative effects associated with substance use and by doing so, we reduce injuries, accidents, and other health concerns. Additionally, they help to lessen the feelings of shame and isolation, increasing the likelihood that individuals will seek help. Harm reduction empowers individuals to make informed choices and engage in healthier behaviors.
Holon Health: What harm reduction strategies is PHCD focusing on lately?
Sara Lind: The Pima County Health Department (PCHD) has significantly expanded Narcan distribution in areas affected by both fatal and nonfatal overdoses. This proactive approach provides immediate assistance during emergencies and aims to prevent further tragedies. Additionally, we’ve prioritized hiring and retaining peer navigators and case managers. This focus helps reduce barriers for individuals seeking care and builds a stronger support system. By enhancing access to necessary services, we’re fostering a more compassionate and understanding environment for those in need.
Holon Health: Do you think this work is making a difference? How are you feeling about the crisis?
Sara Lind: Thankfully, trends in 2024 are promising and indicate we may have at least another plateau year and likely even a slight decrease trend in fatal overdoses for our final 2024 projection numbers. This is positive news, but no reason to let the foot off the gas pedal since evidently prevention efforts are working. While numbers remain unacceptably high (even one death related to overdose is unacceptable), we must continue to fight against overdoses through integrative outreach and awareness efforts.
Holon Health: We know Pima County Health Department focuses on partnerships. As a big proponent of community partnerships, we know why. But, for those reading who aren’t as familiar, can you explain the value of these partnerships?
Sara Lind: Community partnerships significantly improve outcomes for individuals with substance use disorders by creating a comprehensive and supportive network that addresses all aspects of addiction – prevention, education, treatment, and recovery. By focusing on all aspects of addiction, we create a way for lasting positive changes that ultimately contribute to a healthier, safer, and more resilient community.
Holon Health: Speaking of focusing on all aspects of addiction, part of that is the Overdose Fatality Review your team works on. Any insight into what the upcoming 2023 OFR will show?
Sara Lind: We are approaching the conclusion of our 2023 OFR, and we expect a 36% increase in the number of committee-reviewed cases compared to last year. The committee has already identified several significant and unique recommendations highlighting key contributing factors such as using alone or in secrecy, histories of childhood and/or adult trauma, and polysubstance use. I look forward to sharing these findings, along with many others, in the upcoming annual report.
For those interested in staying updated on the Pima County Health Department, you can follow them on Facebook. For relevant updates related to Holon Health’s work at the intersection of criminal justice and substance use, we’ll share them on our blog.
For questions, contact Holon Health. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, there is help. To start receiving no-cost healthcare services with Holon that address your physical and mental health needs, call/text (877) 465-6650.