Alaska Department of Health SOR IV Project Abstract Summary
Alaska Department of Health (DOH) will use the SAMHSA State Opioid Response (SOR) IV funds to offer a comprehensive approach to prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery by supporting improved access to the continuum of care, enhancing the workforce to support this care, and integrating resources to serve those most vulnerable.
The prevention initiatives aim to serve 6,100 people over the project period. Key components include sustaining the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) and Stay Safe Youth Campaign. The prevention efforts also encompass harm reduction activities, such as supporting syringe service programs and expanding Alaska's Opioid Education and Naloxone Distribution (OEND) program, Project HOPE. There are two goals that apply to prevention: "Alaskans are supported in responsible prescribing and dispensing policies and practices," and “Alaskans experience reduced morbidity and mortality associated with opioid and stimulant use.” The first goal has the following objectives: Increase the number of prescribers registered with the PDMP by 20% by June 30, 2027; Decrease delinquent PDMP reporting by 50% by June 30, 2027; Expand the number of facilities integrated with the PDMP via Statewide Gateway Integration by 40% by June 30, 2027; and ensure that at least 85% of patient queries are conducted through integrated access by June 30, 2027. The second goal is: at least 30,000 doses of naloxone will be distributed by June 30, 2025 through Project HOPE with 10 percent of these doses specifically distributed through Alaska’s Reentry Program; at least 90,000 fentanyl and xylazine test strips will be distributed on a yearly basis beginning July 1st and ending June 30th through Project HOPE; at least 500 individuals at high risk of overdosing receive overdose and overdose death prevention education by September 29, 2025; and at least 500 individuals receiving services from syringe service programs will be supported with harm reduction intervention by June 30, 2025. The population served will include prescribers serving all age groups, ndividuals most at risk for overdose including those who inject drugs, and justice-involved individuals upon their reentry.
The Alaska DOH aims to reach 1,195 individuals with treatment using SOR funding, focusing on expanding access to contingency management and medications for opioid use disorder. The goal is the following: Alaskans have timely access to the screening, referral and treatment services they need. The objectives within this goal are separated out by timely screening, referral, and treatment measurable objectives. The population served will include individuals 16 and older, women who are pregnant, and those eligible for DBH grantee approved services.
DOH will continue supporting recovery residences, with a target of serving at least 242 people through this initiative. The goal is Alaskans build communities of recovery across the state. The objectives are: by September 27, 2024, at least seven recovery residences will have received certification from National Alliance of Recovery Residences (NARR); and by September 27, 2024, 300 individuals will have been able to reside in a recovery residence. The populations served are all genders, 18 and older who are in recovery from opioid and stimulant use disorders.
Workforce development efforts will ensure that Alaskans can obtain certification in chemical dependency counseling. Additionally, the behavioral health workforce will stay current with the ASAM 4th edition and other evidence-based trainings. Peer support specialists will receive comprehensive training to effectively assist those struggling with substance use disorder.