How Lehigh Valley Counties Are Investing $46 Million to Combat the Opioid Crisis
Lehigh and Northampton counties in Pennsylvania are set to make a significant impact on the opioid crisis with a combined $46 million in settlement funds. This financial boost comes from a nationwide $54 billion settlement with pharmaceutical companies accused of fuelling the opioid epidemic. The funds are designed to combat opioid-use disorders and address the devastating effects of addiction in the Lehigh Valley.
Strategic Spending: How the Counties Are Using the Funds
Initial Allocation and Current Spending
Both counties have begun to allocate their shares of the settlement funds, focusing on critical areas such as overdose prevention and addiction treatment. Here’s a closer look at how these funds are being used:
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Lehigh County: Received about $20 million in total opioid settlement funds. So far, approximately $1.74 million has been spent, including investments in overdose-reversal drugs and educational campaigns. Future plans include:
- Northern Lehigh Treatment Center: A new facility in Slatington to provide case management and counseling.
- Mobile Therapy Program: Aimed at increasing accessibility to mental health services.
- Expanded Recovery Beds: More beds at the Lehigh County Center for Recovery in Bethlehem.
- Warm Handoff Program: Extending operational hours to ensure timely treatment for overdose survivors.
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Northampton County: Will receive $26 million over 18 years, with $1.9 million already spent. Key initiatives include:
- “Fake is Real” Campaign: Raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and distributing Narcan kits.
- Mobile Outreach Vehicle: To provide services in underserved areas.
- Deterra Drug-Disposal Pouches: Facilitating safe disposal of unused medications.
Challenges and Opportunities in Fund Allocation
Compliance and Oversight
To receive the funds, counties must adhere to guidelines outlined in a document known as “Exhibit E,” which specifies acceptable uses for the settlement money. These include:
- Medication-Assisted Treatment: Making treatments more accessible.
- Support for Babies with Withdrawal Symptoms: Providing care for infants affected by maternal opioid use.
- Incarceration Treatment: Offering opioid treatment within jails.
- Professional Support: Funding for professionals who assist those with opioid use disorders.
- Foster Care and Education: Helping children impacted by opioid use and providing educational opportunities.
Funds cannot be used for administrative expenses, but interest earned from the funds can be allocated for such purposes. This ensures that the primary focus remains on addressing opioid addiction rather than administrative costs.
Funding Limitations and Advocacy
Some recovery advocates have called for more flexibility in how the funds are used. Bill Stauffer of the Pennsylvania Recovery Organization Alliance emphasises the need for broader inclusion and community engagement. He notes:
- Restrictions: The current funding guidelines are somewhat restrictive, limiting how effectively the money can address various aspects of addiction recovery.
- Community Input: There is a call for more community involvement in determining the best use of funds to ensure they meet local needs.
Success Stories and Future Plans
Lehigh County’s Progress
Lehigh County has made notable strides in using its opioid settlement funds effectively. For example:
- Increased Access: The Northern Lehigh Treatment Center and mobile therapy program aim to extend services to underserved areas.
- Enhanced Recovery Support: Expanding the number of recovery beds and extending the warm handoff program are expected to significantly improve recovery rates.
Northampton County’s Initiatives
Northampton County has also seen positive outcomes:
- Awareness Campaigns: The “Fake is Real” campaign has successfully educated residents and distributed Narcan kits.
- Mobile Services: The upcoming mobile outreach vehicle will provide critical services to those without access to traditional treatment options.
Looking Ahead: Addressing Criticisms and Optimising Impact
Feedback from Advocates
While both counties are making strides, some advocates argue for a more comprehensive approach:
- Broader Use of Funds: There is a push for relaxing the funding rules to allow more flexibility in addressing related issues like mental health and co-occurring disorders.
- Community Engagement: Increased involvement of local communities in decision-making could enhance the effectiveness of the programs.
Public and Private Sector Collaboration
Collaboration between public agencies and private organisations is crucial for maximising the impact of the funds. Engaging local stakeholders and recovery organisations can provide valuable insights and help tailor interventions to specific community needs.
Conclusion
Lehigh and Northampton counties are making significant efforts to address the opioid crisis with their settlement funds. Through targeted spending on education, treatment, and prevention, they aim to mitigate the impact of addiction on their communities. Continued oversight and flexibility in fund usage will be essential to ensure that these investments achieve the greatest possible benefit.
For more details on the opioid crisis and related funding, visit National Institute on Drug Abuse and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
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