The importance of providing access to life-saving interventions for people who use opioids or are in recovery for opioid use in Waukesha County cannot be overstated. Opioid use and addiction have become a significant public health concern, with devastating consequences for individuals, families, and communities. Further, too often services are not made available for those who are still active in their use which is when they tend to need the services most.

Access to life-saving interventions, such as naloxone (an opioid overdose reversal medication) and medication-assisted treatment (MAT), can significantly reduce the risk of fatal opioid overdoses and support individuals on their path to recovery. These interventions have proven to be effective in saving lives and improving health outcomes for people struggling with opioid addiction. By ensuring that residents in this age group have access to these interventions, Waukesha County can make a meaningful impact in addressing the opioid crisis. Prompt administration of naloxone during an overdose can reverse the effects of opioids and prevent death, providing a critical window of opportunity for individuals to seek further treatment and support. Medication-assisted treatment, which combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies, can help individuals manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and improve overall recovery outcomes.

Access to life-saving interventions not only saves lives but also offers hope and support to individuals and their families during challenging times. It helps to break the cycle of addiction, reduce the burden on emergency medical services, and promote a healthier and safer community overall. Therefore, ensuring access to life-saving interventions for residents aged 18-44 who use opioids or are in recovery is crucial in addressing the opioid crisis and promoting the well-being of individuals and the community as a whole.

Substance Use Team Chairs:

• Brea Lopez, Integrated Services Supervisor, Waukesha County HHS
• Hailey Nenonen, Community Outreach Manager Aurora Health Care
• Sara Carpenter, Vice-President, Wisconsin Community Services
• Stephanie Engle, Overdose Fatality Review Social Worker, Waukesha County HHS

Substance Use Action Team Members: