The Need for More Resources to Address Fentanyl

At Southwest Washington Accountable Community of Health (SWACH), we are believers in the power of partnership. Creating strong ties to a network of resources has been our approach to addressing many of the challenges individuals face in the region, including the opioid epidemic. For over six years, we have been dedicated to helping increase access to care and treatment for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) while also removing barriers that individuals face when accessing that care. As fentanyl continues to impact our communities and overdoses are rising, the importance of that access and support is crucial for community members’ well-being.

SWACH recently had the opportunity to participate in a round-table event focusing on the intersection of housing, treatment, and additional resources that are needed to combat fentanyl use throughout Southwest Washington. The event was facilitated by SWACH’s Director for Clinical and Community Linkages - Eric McNair Scott - and included Sen. Maria Cantwell, local politicians, law enforcement agencies, individuals in recovery, and other community-based organizations (CBOs).

The round table event was a unique opportunity to connect with multiple stakeholders to discuss fentanyl use and solutions.

More details about the event are available through the Columbian. We appreciate our partners, local leadership, and everyone else involved in making the event happen. To learn more about SWACH’s efforts to address OUD, contact Nicole Hamberger at nicole.hamberger@southwestach.org.