State, territorial, and local governments continue to grapple with substance misuse and addictions. Today’s episode discusses why there needs to be a comprehensive response in public health surveillance, in particular around the opioid epidemic. After all, without thorough data, it’s tough for lawmakers to drive action that will reduce the prevalence and incidence of drug overdoses.

This episode also explores states that are considering novel initiatives to address non-fatal drug overdoses. Today, we highlight Rhode Island and Vermont, where officials are looking at the substance misuse epidemic through a global lens to hold themselves accountable.

Guests:

Ewa King, Ph.D., Associate Director of Health, Rhode Island Department of Health Mark A. Levine, M.D., Commissioner, Vermont Department of Health

Resources:

• Preventing Opioid Misuse and Overdose in the States and Territories(ASTHO)
• Rx -Innovative Approaches for Overdose Prevention(ASTHO)
• Improve Monitoring and Surveillance(ASTHO)
• About Public Health Laboratories(APHL)
• Vermont Opioids Scorecard(Vermont Department of Health)