Opioid Awareness
New findings from the CDC indicate that an estimated 80,816 deaths occurred in 2021 involving opioids [1]. Nationally, an estimated 136 people die each day from an opioid overdose [2]. In Virginia alone, approximately 9,901 cases of opioid overdose were seen in emergency departments across the state[3]. From 2020 to 2021, the Virginia Department of Health reported an approximate 15% increase in opioid related deaths [4]. The data reported demonstrates that opioid overdose presents itself as a serious public health concern. Despite this seemingly insurmountable challenge facing the community, there is hope.
Those struggling with addiction have the obvious need to achieve sobriety and enter recovery. These patients also often come with multiple other needs that can take their attention away from their recovery efforts. Untreated medical issues can lead to relapse. Social and economic issues such as lack of family support, homelessness or unemployment can contribute to recovery instability. To counter these complications the recovery efforts must be broad and inclusive.
Within Centra, we offer several opportunities to aid in addiction recovery and support. With this crisis growing year by year[1], Centra strives to serve local communities by meeting individuals where they are in relation to their recovery process, whether it is crisis or maintenance in a variety of ways to meet their needs:
ED physicians have made intentional efforts to partner with our inpatient and outpatient services to ensure better outcomes for patients who seek addiction care in the ED. From this collaboration plans for the emPATH Unit have been developed.
The inpatient psychiatric units offer opportunities for assessment, detox, and connection with recovery support
We have our Pathways Treatment Center, that offers in-depth assessment and individualized treatment, including individual and group therapy, medical management, and psychiatric consultation. Pathways offers a variety of options to engage, be it residential, outpatient, or even virtual. There is even a specialized service for patients seeking sobriety while pregnant!
The Addiction Treatment Center (ATC) provides medication management specific to opioid addiction. Mental health and recovery services using medication-assisted treatment (MAT) are available, as well as individual and group therapy options. MAT has been shown to be effective in supporting individuals in their recovery and preventing overdose related to opioid use disorder (OUD)[5]. The ATC provides care coordination to assist with connecting patients to various social resources as well.
On August 31st, Centra is teaming up with local organizations for Overdose Awareness Day. This event held at Lynchburg General from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., which includes REVIVE training. We will bring together community partners and care providers to educate the community about the dangers of opioid overdose and the resources available to combat the growing epidemic. To learn more about these programs go to https://www.centrahealth.com/services/addiction-and-recovery-services..
Written by Tommy Peade, Care Transitions Specialist & Stephanie Porter, NP for Addiction services
