State targeted response to the opioid Crisis grants (opioid STR) program: Preliminary findings from two case studies and the national cross-site evaluation

Opioid misuse is a national health crisis that requires sustained treatment, prevention, and recovery efforts. This study evaluates the innovative treatment approaches that two states – Kentucky and Missouri – implemented in their states using State Targeted Response to the Opioid Crisis Grant (Opioid STR) program funds from the Substance Abuse Mental Health and Services Administration (SAMHSA), as well as preliminary findings from the Opioid STR national, cross-site evaluation that is funded and managed by SAMHSA. The Kentucky approach discusses the Emergency Department (ED) bridge model, which links patients discharged from EDs to appropriate professional treatment and recovery services. Missouri implemented the Medication First (MedFirst) model, an evidence-based treatment for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD). These states highlight novel approaches likely being implemented throughout the country to combat the opioid epidemic. Findings from the case studies and supported by the national evaluation indicate that key factors to successful program implementation – supportive state policies, partnerships and collaborations, and sustainability – facilitated the implementation of planned interventions. The novel approaches discussed combined with care across the continuum (prevention, treatment and recovery) and continued federal support is likely to have an impact on reducing opioid misuse across the U.S.