The Des Moines Fire Department (DMFD) has launched its Rapid Engagement and Community Health (REACH) program. This program offers opioid addiction treatment for Des Moines residents who have recently experienced overdoses.
The aim of REACH is to give Polk County residents another option for support, compassion, and hope.
Since 2023, the Des Moines Fire Department and Des Moines Police Department have administered Narcan more than 1,200 times. While this medication offers an effective option for treating overdoses, many Iowans are still losing their lives to substance abuse.
Indeed, nearly half of Polk County residents report their lives have been negatively affected by drugs, especially opioids.
Des Moines Opioid Outreach Program Aims to Save Lives
If a person experiences one overdose, they are at high risk for another overdose. As tolerance develops, people may take higher doses to achieve the same effect, increasing the risk of overdose.
That’s what makes programs like REACH so important. By offering options to those who’ve suffered an overdose, the DMFD provides crucial support to those who need it most.
REACH offers solutions such as medication-assisted treatment, recovery coaching and peer support.
Program providers use Polk County EMS data to identify individuals who’ve experienced an overdose within the past three days and reach out to offer services. Self-referrals are also gladly accepted.
The program is the first of its kind in the Hawkeye State and is funded by Polk County’s Opioid Settlement funds. Treatment services are provided by DMFD paramedics and trained recovery coaches.
Finding Opioid Addiction Treatment in Des Moines
As a major hub of the U.S. Corn Belt, Des Moines is known for fertile crops. But Iowa has not escaped the opioid epidemic that has swept the rest of the nation in recent years.
Search addiction.com’s directory to find treatment centers close to you or call
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