Ohio Division of EMS Opioid Overdose Bridge Program survey

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of deaths due to drug overdose continues to increase.  In 2020, Ohio was ranked as the state with the 4th highest death rate in the nation at 47.2 deaths/100,000 total population.   

   Buprenorphine or Suboxone® (a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone) have been administered successfully within structured opioid overdose bridge programs.  For patients who are not transported to a hospital, these medications prevent the onset of opioid withdrawal and can serve as a “bridge of survival” until the patient can be linked to drug rehabilitation resources.

   The Ohio Department of Public Safety, Division of EMS is assessing the current landscape of opioid overdose bridge programs in Ohio.  We respectfully request that each Ohio EMS agency and EMS medical director complete and submit this brief survey by September 8, 2023.   Thank you for your assistance and continued dedicated service to Ohio EMS!