In a recent meeting of the Portland City Council's Community & Public Safety Committee, the spotlight shone on the innovative efforts of the Community Health Section of the Portland Fire Department, known as CHAT. Deputy Chief and Nurse Program Manager Michelle Lavinia presented a comprehensive overview of CHAT's overdose response and Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) program, highlighting the city's proactive approach to addressing the ongoing opioid crisis.

CHAT operates under the Emergency Operations Division, with a dual focus on immediate response and aftercare. The response team, available four days a week, consists of four units strategically placed across the city, including two dedicated overdose response teams. These teams are equipped to handle low-acuity medical calls and are trained to administer Narcan, a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses.

One of the standout features of CHAT's program is its partnership with various organizations, including Multnomah County and Central City Concern. This collaboration allows CHAT to not only respond to overdose incidents but also to offer immediate treatment options. When a CHAT team arrives at the scene of an overdose, they provide Narcan if it hasn't already been administered and, with the patient's consent, offer buprenorphine—an effective medication for treating opioid use disorder. This approach aims to prevent withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, ultimately lowering the risk of repeated opioid use.

The program's pilot phase saw 36 individuals enrolled, with promising outcomes. Notably, 56% of participants were connected to same-day medical appointments, and 68% received a "warm handoff" to a MOUD clinic, where CHAT staff accompanied clients to ensure they received the necessary care. Additionally, 44% of those served were connected to shelter services, demonstrating CHAT's commitment to comprehensive support.

The aftercare team plays a crucial role in maintaining engagement with clients, providing over 730 hours of follow-up support. This includes assistance with shelter, food, medication, and transportation to medical appointments. On average, clients remained engaged with CHAT for 80 days, receiving tailored support to facilitate their recovery journey.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members reflected on the importance of these initiatives in combating the opioid crisis in Portland. The data presented underscored the need for continued investment in community health programs like CHAT, which not only respond to emergencies but also pave the way for long-term recovery and support for those affected by substance use disorders. The commitment to innovative solutions and collaborative efforts stands as a beacon of hope in the ongoing fight against addiction in the city.