Emergency Department Overdose Prevention

Our Emergency Department (ED) Overdose Prevention program program provides immediate, compassionate care for patients facing substance use challenges, including opioids, stimulants, and polysubstance use.

A multidisciplinary team—ED physicians, behavioral health nurses, clinical pharmacy specialists, peer specialists, licensed mental health counselors, and care coordinators—delivers screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment. Whether a patient presents with an overdose or complications from substance use, our team acts quickly to connect them with the right supports and pathways to recovery.

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)

We help patients begin Medication‑Assisted Treatment (MAT), an evidence‑based approach proven to reduce overdose risk and support recovery. MAT combines medications such as buprenorphine with counseling and peer support to help patients stabilize, stay engaged in treatment, and build resilience. You don’t need to be completely off opioids to start; what matters most is taking the first step and staying connected to care.

How does the Emergency Overdose Prevention program work?

Treatment begins in the ED, intervening at a critical moment for patients at high risk. The ED serves as a patient‑centered, open‑access setting where individuals can receive immediate support. We connect patients with the help they need right away, whether that means starting MAT, receiving a naloxone (Narcan) kit, getting a treatment referral, or engaging with our care team. We also provide care coordination to link patients with housing, employment, and peer support, ensuring recovery is reinforced by both medical care and community resources.

Together, we focus on helping each patient take the next step toward recovery with care that is compassionate, evidence‑based, and tailored to their needs.

Immediate ED care that connects patients with treatment, MAT, naloxone, and community support.