Inappropriate opioid prescribing is fueling one of the deadliest drug epidemics in United States history. Every day in the U.S., 78 people die from an opioid-related overdose. In addition to the tragedy of lost lives, states bear many of the financial costs associated with addiction through state-funded health care programs, substance use programs, the criminal justice system and lost productivity.
Developed by the NGA Center through extensive consultation with senior state officials and other national experts, the road map, Finding Solutions to the Prescription Opioid and Heroin Crisis: A Road Map for States, is a tool to help states respond to the growing opioid crisis. The road map features a public health approach focused on preventing and treating the disease of opioid use disorder, while strengthening law enforcement efforts to address illegal supply chain activity. It is designed as a policy development tool, allowing a state to use all or portions of the road map as it applies to their unique situation.
