Train and equip individuals who are most likely to encounter or witness an overdose with Naloxone/Narcan (people who use drugs, first responders, unhoused individuals, criminal justice settings etc.). Expand targeted Naloxone distribution to these populations via leave-behind, mobile team distribution outside of traditional business hours, pop-up events, distribution at rural community centers, pre-release from jail, orders built in to EMR at Guthrie, Narcan vending machines, and co-prescriptions for naloxone with MOUD.

Expand MOUD treatment availability in addiction/substance use disorder treatment settings and recovery programs through enhanced provider education, improved workflows, and incentives as well as through scaling up telehealth low-threshold MOUD treatment services. Improve linkages to MOUD through social service provider referral via NY Matters/direct connection with provider and bridge scripts at the Guthrie ER. Retain individuals in MOUD treatment through engaging individuals receiving MOUD in behavioral health services (peer services). 

Improve safe prescribing practices for chronic pain by distributing information and providing trainings to primary care providers on safer prescribing best practices. Implement safer opioid disposal practices through prescription drug drop boxes and take back events.

Implement a comprehensive paid social marketing campaign related to safe drug disposal, sharps disposal, MOUD awareness, MOUD retention, Naloxone, Harm Reduction and stigma. The campaign will use multiple media channels and target Cortland County residents 18+.

Increase availability of/access and linkages to syringe services programs provided through the Southern Tier Aids Program. Promote and expand access to safe disposal of syringes and educate community members on the benefits and purpose of Syringe Services programs. 

Implement universal Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) at Guthrie Cortland Medical Center, Family Health Network, Family & Children’s Counseling Services, Cortland County Mental Health Department, Cortland County Jail, and Tompkins Cortland Community College.

Build support systems to care for people who use substances and those at risk of overdose, through referral system from Guthrie ER and Cortland County Mental Health Department to Family & Children’s Counseling Services, promotion and implementation of Family & Children’s Counseling Services COTI mobile clinic and peer programs, Catholic Charities Wishing Wellness Center peer program, Cayuga Addiction Recovery Services peer program, and the Tompkins Cortland Community College Recovery Space.