Hawaii Releases Opioid Action Plan

Officials released it Dec. 1. The plan was developed collaboratively by multiple agencies starting in July 2017.

  • Dec 07, 2017

The state of Hawaii released its Opioid Initiative Action Plan on Dec. 1. The plan was developed collaboratively by multiple agencies starting in July 2017 and serves as a roadmap for prevention and treatment of substance abuse, officials said.

"Fortunately, Hawaii has not yet experienced the magnitude of the opioid crisis seen in other parts of the country," Hawaii Gov. David Y. Ige said. "While emerging issues and concerns in the state are on the rise, we have been given a relatively unique opportunity to proactively respond, prepare, and prevent the crisis from reaching the same magnitude."

Officials said the plan is designed to sustain a coordinated and proactive response to not only opioids, but also methamphetamine and other prevalent drugs. The collaborative effort is led by the state Department of Health, together with the Department of the Attorney General, Department of Human Services Med-QUEST Division, Department of Public Safety Narcotics Enforcement Division, and a range of community groups.

The plan identifies six key focus areas:

  • treatment access
  • prescriber education
  • data-informed decision making
  • prevention and public education
  • pharmacy-based interventions
  • supporting law enforcement and first responders

"The plan is a living document and should be viewed as a beginning rather than an end," said Edward Mersereau, chief of the Hawaii Department of Health Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division. "To maintain momentum, working groups will continue to meet to track progress and to expand or adjust the plan as additional data and outcomes are obtained."

The document recommends an amendment to the state law related to Hawaii's Prescription Monitoring Program. The recommended change would grant additional authority for the DPS Narcotics Enforcement Division to provide PMP data to specific divisions of the Department of Health for public health surveillance purposes.

Product Showcase

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi gas detector that runs continuously for three years without being recharged or routinely calibrated after its initial charge and calibration during manufacturing. The detector reliably tests a worksite’s atmosphere for hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases (LEL). Its durability enables the detector to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, hence earning it an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as the GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. Read More

  • NoiseCHEK Personal Noise Dosimeter

    SKC NoiseCHEK is the easiest-to-use dosimeter available! Designed specifically for OEHS professionals, SKC NoiseCHEK offers the easiest operation and accurate noise measurements. Everything you need is right in your palm. Pair Bluetooth models to your mobile devices and monitor workers remotely with the SmartWave dB app without interrupting workflow. Careful design features like a locking windscreen, sturdy clip, large front-lit display, bright status LEDs, and more make NoiseCHEK the top choice in noise dosimeters. Demo NoiseCHEK at AIHA Connect Booth 1003. Read More

  • AirChek Connect Sampling Pump

    Stay connected to your sampling with the SKC AirChek® Connect Sampling Pump! With its Bluetooth connection to PC and mobile devices, you can monitor AirChek Connect pump operation without disrupting workflow. SKC designed AirChek Connect specifically for all OEHS professionals to ensure accurate, reliable flows from 5 to 5000 ml/min and extreme ease of use. AirChek Connect offers easy touch screen operation and flexibility. It is quality built to serve you and the workers you protect. Ask about special pricing and a demo at AIHA Connect Booth 1003. Read More

Featured

Most   Popular

Artificial Intelligence