State of Healthcare in Maryland: The Opioid Epidemic

On November 9th, HealthCare Access Maryland (HCAM) hosted the 2nd installment of the “State of Healthcare in Maryland” Speaker Series. In this event, our expert panel discussed the current state of the opioid epidemic.

Our expert panel included Stacey Jefferson, Director of Policy and Stakeholder Engagement – Behavioral Health System Baltimore; Sadie Smith, Chief Program Officer, Behavioral Health – Mosaic Group, Inc; and Joshua Shetterly, OSOP Coach, SBIRT Program – MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center. The panel addressed the ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the accessibility of treatment and recovery care services. They also shared harm reduction practices and policies, and peer support services that are improving health outcomes for Marylanders living with substance use disorders and saving lives.

Throughout the discussion, the experts emphasized the importance of ending the stigma that surrounds substance use disorders, and recognizing it as a chronic health condition.

The Speaker Series event was recorded and can be viewed here:

Resources

Our expert panel discussed a range of resources to learn more about the opioid epidemic, and to find support for yourself, a loved one, or colleague.

Here2HelpLine (410-433-5175) – One number connects Baltimore City residents to crisis services through Baltimore Crisis Response Inc, and information and treatment referral services provided by HealthCare Access Maryland. Help is available 24/7, 365 days a year.
Brave App: Connects people who use drugs with community members when they are vulnerable to overdose. This app was created by people living with substance use disorders to reduce harm.
Never Use Alone: A line that provides a life-saving point of contact for people who use drugs to help increase their odds of surviving overdose or fentanyl poisoning.
Before It’s Too Late: Maryland’s most recently available data related to overdose and overdose-related deaths in the state, including annual reports, can be found here.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

The State of Healthcare in Maryland Speaker Series is generously supported by our partners. We thank them for supporting our work to create a healthier Maryland.