The Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH) in the state has identified six strategies to combat overdose deaths, as stated by Joanna Champney, the director. These strategies include reducing the negative stigma associated with addiction, increasing the number of people screened for substance use disorders, and distributing Narcan throughout the state. Additionally, DSAMH is working on outreach programs for individuals experiencing homelessness and focusing on state funding for detox and treatment programs.
Champney emphasized the state’s commitment to reducing drug poisoning and overdose deaths to zero and expressed gratitude for the efforts of partners involved in these initiatives. While the timetable for placing “harm reduction” vending machines around the state has been delayed until early summer, these machines will offer items like Narcan and fentanyl and xylazine test strips.
DSAMH is actively seeking a partner to help build another state-funded detox facility in Kent or Sussex County, specifically for low-income individuals and those on Medicaid. Currently, uninsured or underinsured individuals have to travel to the Kirkwood Highway area in New Castle County for detox services, as it is the only state facility offering this type of care. Champney is hopeful that state lawmakers will approve a higher reimbursement rate for Fiscal Year 2025, starting in July, to make it more appealing for providers to consider a state contract for detox services.