Overdose Response Program Launched In Middleburg Heights

MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS, OH — As fatal drug overdoses continue to plague both Cuyahoga County and the state as a whole, medical officials and politicians have been trying to create a solution to the epidemic of addiction. To that end, a program for rapid overdose response has been created at Southwest General Hospital.

“If an individual within the community overdoses, the standard course of action is for him or her to be brought to the Southwest General Emergency Department (ED) by either the fire or police representative,” said Michael Waggoner, director, Oakview Behavioral Health Services, Southwest General. “Once the individual is medically cleared, he or she will be offered the opportunity, while still in the ED, to speak with a peer support specialist through The Woodrow Project.”

The Woodrow Project is a peer-to-peer addiction recovery group. It's managed by people who are in long-term recovery and have years of sobriety. They also have experience working with addicted individuals, said Woodrow Project Executive Director Erin Helms.

“The peer support specialists support individuals on the road to recovery by providing them with the tools and education needed to make the most informed decision regarding their treatment path," Helms added.

The Woodrow Project is also partnering with local police departments, including Berea, Middleburg Heights, Strongsville, Olmsted Township and Newburg Heights. Those departments offer "Safe Passages" programs, designed to help people battling addiction get into a treatment program.

“The peer support specialists are a critical link between the treatment system and the larger communities where those struggling with addiction live,” says Waggoner. “We are grateful to bring this exceptional program to Southwest General as we continue to focus on providing rapid intervention for individuals who have overdosed.”

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Photo from Southwest General Hospital