Planet Salem sizes things up

Drug overdoses in Oregon surged in 2021, and the geniuses at the Oregon Health Authority have issued a big fat 32-page report about it. But not once – not once! – does it even mention that hard drugs were essentially legalized in the state effective February 1, 2021. And let's face it, folks, that has made the situation much, much worse than it otherwise would be.

The document is breathtaking in its denial of reality. 

Overdoses in general increased during recent years, especially in 2020 and 2021. This trend may be attributable, at least in part, to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. As access to health care facilities, assistance programs and risk reduction efforts decreased or stopped, unintentional and undetermined overdose-related deaths increased substantially. As services resumed and facilities began reopening, drug overdose-related deaths continued to increase. Disruptions to daily life, increased social isolation, job losses and other economic hardships, increased anxiety and other effects have likely contributed to the overdose crisis. The pandemic exacerbated longstanding inequities and substance use disorder risk factors, including but not limited to increasing income inequality and inconsistent access to shelter and health care.

 Measure 110 was, and is, a disaster. And the bobbleheads in state government simply won't admit it.

OHA’s response, which includes a wide variety of partners across the state, is informed by an understanding of the complexity and breadth of the overdose crisis. Trends indicate a continuing need for enhanced prevention across the continuum of drug use. This includes education for people who have never used drugs; resilience building and support to strengthen protective factors among those at higher risk for drug use and for developing substance use disorder; providing comprehensive, non-stigmatizing harm reduction services for people who use drugs; ensuring universal access to culturally sensitive treatment; and maintaining strong support for people in recovery, including peer support workers. Each non-fatal overdose and medical or behavioral health care visit has the potential to be a touch point with prevention, treatment, and recovery services to support recovery and reduce the risk of a future fatal overdose.

This is such a load of manure. It's simply not acceptable. This state needs in the worst way to be shaken up.