Pubdate: Tue, 21 Nov 2017 Source: Sentinel Review (CN ON) Copyright: 2017 Woodstock Sentinel Review Contact: http://www.woodstocksentinelreview.com/letters Website: http://www.woodstocksentinelreview.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2385 Author: Heather Rivers Page: A1 DRUG STRATEGY UNIQUE TO OXFORD The county issued a request for proposals last week for local drug strategy to address opioid and other substance misuse issues Oxford County is zeroing in on the development of a local drug strategy that would include an overdose response plan for the opioid crisis. Last week, the county issued a request for proposals for the development of a drug strategy to enhance local opioid response while working towards building a sustainable community outreach and response capacity. "We are reaching out to individuals and organizations who may be interested in developing a drug strategy for Oxford County to address opiate issues and other substance misuse," said Peter Heywood, manager of health protection for Oxford County public health. "We look forward to reviewing those proposals in a couple weeks." According to the Opioid and Other Substance Misuse in Oxford County report, the rate of opioid-related deaths in Oxford County is increasing. In 2016, there were seven deaths, on par with the province's average of 6.2. The report also indicated that prescription opioid use among Oxford County residents was higher than average compared to other counties for opioid maintenance therapy. The new drug strategy would be designed to leverage programs and services already offered by public health and other community organizations. The multi-faceted approach will target a broad range of substances that includes opioids, alcohol, cannabis and prescription drugs. Prior to the implementation of the drug strategy, a situational assessment is being conducted over the next four to six months that would include input from community leaders; those with lived experience; and those who work in treatment, prevention and enforcement, as well as public health. Heywood said the strategy would be tailored to fit the needs of the community. "Oxford County is a unique community with its own issues," he said. Funded by $150,000 from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, public health is mandated to develop the Harm Reduction Program Enhancement. The program included expanded opioid response, naloxone distribution and training, and opioid early warning and surveillance. - --- MAP posted-by: Matt