Drug overdose deaths are a leading contributor to premature death and are largely preventable.¹ Currently, the United States is experiencing an epidemic of drug overdose deaths. Since 2000, the rate of drug overdose deaths has increased by 137% nationwide. Opioids contribute largely to drug overdose deaths; since 2000, there has been a 200% increase in deaths involving opioids (opioid pain relievers and heroin). (CHR 2023)