A New Drug Program in Duval County
To take measures against the opioid epidemic in Duval County, local addiction advocates and state health officials announce a new program to battle this issue: “CORE” or “Coordinated Opioid Recovery.” While Governor Ron DeSantis first introduced this program in August, it has been implemented in more than a dozen Florida counties. With over 400 people dying of drug overdose in just Duval County, individuals living in these areas will greatly benefit from this program. CORE notifies EMS or emergency medical services whenever someone overdoses to take them to specialty hospitals where they stabilize the patient and start any necessary treatments. The program also offers peer-to-peer advocates who encourage people to get the treatment they need. The Florida Department of Health distributes up to $1 million per county to start the program. Within a few months of implementing this program in surrounding hospitals, CORE has helped treat and improve the lives of more than 350 patients.
By: Pavithra Sankar
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