While the work continues, progress in reducing opioid-related deaths is clear. In 2020, there were 411 overdose deaths—a 46% increase from 2019. By 2025, that number declined to 231, a reduction of more than 50%. Addressing this crisis remains a priority for DCHA and the District, which support the Live.Long.DC. initiative to advance coordinated, cross-sector solutions.
of patients entering a DC hospital received a screening to assess their risk of substance use disorder
patients who screened positive for risk of substance use disorder received a motivational interview to support behavior change
of opioid use patients who received medication for opioid use disorder in the hospital were linked to follow up treatment
Hospital-Based Peer Support Services
With grant funding, DCHA launched the Hospital-Based Peer Support Services Program across multiple D.C. hospitals. The program identifies patients with opioid use disorder or at risk and connects them to immediate treatment. Patients who screen positive are referred to Peer Recovery Coaches—trained hospital staff with lived experience—who provide brief interventions and link patients to care. Hospitals initiate treatment and connect patients to community providers for ongoing support, with follow-up to ensure continuity. Early interventions, including medication for opioid use disorder, help save lives, supported by ongoing wraparound services.
Overdose Survivor’s Outreach
The Overdose Survivor’s Outreach Program (OSOP) builds on hospital-based peer support by providing continued care in the community. Patients are connected with an coach who supports them for 90 days, linking them to services like transportation, ID, and health care. Coaches use motivational interviewing to assess readiness for change and, when appropriate, connect individuals to treatment providers.
DCHA and our members are proud to be part of the solution to help individuals get the treatment they need at the right time and right place. We are proud to work in collaboration with our member hospitals and the DC government to launch this most important program as a critical step in battling this terrible epidemic.
