Graham County Community Needs Assessment research study was identified by Graham County Department of Public Health, the Substance Use Coalition, and the Economic Development Director as an action, that when combined with other actions in our community, that has a reasonable chance of making a difference in persons who are in recovery and/or are actively using substances in our community. This is a new program in our community.

The priority population/customers for this Graham County Community Needs Assessment research study are in recovery and/or are actively using substances; 18 years or older; and a resident of Graham County, NC, and the Graham County Community Needs Assessment research study aims to make a difference at the individual/interpersonal behavior and the organizational/policy level. Implementation will take place in Robbinsville, NC. 

The partners for this Community Needs Assessment research study include:

The data from the Community Needs Assessment was reviewed and the following areas were found in need: 

• Treatment, Recovery, and Harm Reduction
  • More affordable access evidence-based treatment (MAT- Medication Assissted Treatment)
  • More inpatient (residential) treatment nearby
  • More Harm Reduction programming and services
• Social Determinants of Health
  • Housing options (including healthcre and Mental Health providers), housing assisstance 
  • Funding for healthcare, treatment
  • Medicaid expansion
• Education/Social
  • Stigma reduction education with employers, family members, and community

The Community Needs Assessment research study was used in 2023 to help plan and implement how to use the funds the Health Department received from the Opioid Settlement funds agreement. Work continues to be done with the Opioid Settlement funds in 2024.