Saturday, December 2, 2023
12/2/2023
Maine has the 9th highest age-adjusted death rates due to fatal overdose in the nation and remains in the top 5th state with self-reported herion use and overall illicit drug use nationwide. Current NSDUH data indicate an average of 16.35% of adults needed substance use treatment but were unable to access it, in comparison to an average of 14.65% of adults throughout the US. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner reports that 504 deaths were caused by drugs in 2020, which is a 33% increase over 380 in 2019. Programs and services established through SOR-III will support the state's overall goal to reduce the negative health and economic impacts of substance use disorder and opioid use disorder on individuals, families, and communities in Maine. Funding stimulant use treatment programming and community prevention interventions are embraced by Maine DHHS, as it increases the ability to positively impact the polysubstance use issues currently experienced in the state. Specifically, SOR-III funds will be used to meet the need for expanding access to MOUD, including transitional services for individuals exiting carceral settings, naloxone distribution and harm reduction services, peer recovery supports, with special outreach and engagement of members of historically disadvantaged populations, and primary prevention programs to curb substance use among youths.
HHS’ Tracking Accountability in Government Grants System (TAGGS) website provides access to detailed descriptions of grants, loans, aggregated direct payments and other types of financial assistance awarded by the HHS Operating Divisions (OPDIVs) and the Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions (STAFFDIVs).
