Recently, President Trump declared the opioid crisis a public health emergency. Years of rising prescription opioid use and misuse, followed by a surge in the use of illicit opioids, have led to a spike in overdoses and deaths in the United States.
Opioid use disorders (OUD) are particularly hard on homeless populations, where the prevalence of mental health conditions and substance misuse is high, and health care access is often limited.
This webinar examines how resources for opioid abuse can be leveraged for people experiencing homelessness. Federal and local officials discuss what is happening around the country to address the crisis, with a highlight on a successful housing program for people with OUD. There is also a discussion about advocacy and how service providers can connect with state agencies to elevate homelessness to the forefront of the opioid crisis.