Opioid Overdose Treatment

Policy Action plan

Policy Priorities:
Issue:
On February 2nd, President Obama Proposes $1.1 Billion in New Funding
to Address the Prescription Opioid Abuse and Heroin Use Epidemic. Based on
a state wise estimate Illinois is eligible for $28 Million dollars. These funds
need to be appropriated appropriately.
Action:
Advocate for the appropriation of these funds in the following manner:
1.
Ensure that the state received the maximum allocated amount as soon
as possible.
2.
Ensure that funds are administered through local departments of public
health.
3.
Ensure that the funds are appropriated and earmarked appropriately
for the following:
a) Educational initiatives delivered in school and community settings
(primary prevention)
b) Education of Healthcare Providers
c) Implementation of overdose education and naloxone distribution
programs to issue naloxone directly to opioid users and potential
bystanders
d) Expansion of access to MAT
4.
Ensure that community and faith based programs of prevention and
treatment are adequately funded based on severity, to ensure viability and
sustainability.

Vehicle:
I believe that the appropriate vehicle to administer and disburse the funds is
the local public health departments. The local public health departments

should also be empowered to ensure viability sustainability and return on

investment.