Utilizing collaboration and innovation to abate the opioid epidemic

About the Program

Category: Health (Best in Category)

Year: 2022

The Summit County Opiate Abatement Advisory Council (OAAC) is making innovative and transformative investments to help abate the ongoing opioid epidemic and aid residents affected by substance use disorder (SUD). The OAAC first convened in 2020 and is comprised of experts on the subject as well as individuals with lived experience with SUD. The OAAC is tasked with identifying policies and programs to be funded by the opiate litigation settlement monies received in 2019. The OAAC is guided by an abatement strategy developed by experts and focused on four pillars: (1) treatment, (2) system and infrastructure, (3) harm reduction, and (4) education and evidence-based prevention. To date, the OAAC has provided $7 million in grants and lifesaving medications to local organizations, including every hospital system in the county and over 20 grassroots organizations. As other counties begin receiving settlements from opioid litigation or experience emerging health crises, the OAAC serves as a model for managing funds and prioritizing programs to address community needs.