New Evidence Reveals OPCs as Essential Ally Against Overdose Deaths – Arizona Lawmakers Must Protect Them!

The Arizona legislature recently advanced HB 2798, a bill that seeks to prohibit local governments from establishing overdose prevention centers (OPCs). This decision stands in stark contrast to emerging evidence supporting OPCs as vital community resources that dramatically lower fatal overdoses and link individuals to essential treatment services.

Globally, OPCs have operated since the 1980s, yet their implementation in the U.S. faces constraints due to federal laws. Each center offers varied services, typically including a monitored space for drug use, healthcare support for overdose treatment, harm reduction resources, and even basic amenities like meals. Contrary to concerns about enabling drug use, evidence shows that OPCs can actually diminish substance abuse. Providing a compassionate and safe environment facilitates the journey towards recovery for many users.

As an addiction physician, I witness firsthand the profound impact of simply having a stable indoor space. Many of my patients lack stable housing and face barriers like limited access to phones, making on-site medical care crucial. The therapeutic bonds developed in these centers can also help counteract loneliness, a significant factor contributing to increased drug use.

Research consistently indicates that OPCs lower rates of HIV, hepatitis, and public drug use while enhancing access to addiction treatment. For instance, a 42% treatment entry rate was recorded among participants at an OPC in Vancouver. Additionally, by decreasing the need for emergency services, OPCs could significantly alleviate the pressure on Arizona’s healthcare system amid the ongoing emergency department boarding crisis.

New York City serves as a prime example of the potential success of OPCs. Upon opening the first sanctioned centers in early 2021, reports showed a dramatic decrease in improperly discarded syringes and no fatal overdoses on-site. Furthermore, many participants accessed additional health and social services through these centers, highlighting their role as critical entry points into healthcare.

Due to their significant public health benefits, the American Medical Association has advocated for OPCs as a crucial part of a comprehensive strategy to mitigate drug use issues. Similarly, the American Society of Addiction Medicine supports the establishment of pilot OPC programs across states. While OPCs should not operate in isolation, they play an essential role alongside other treatment and prevention efforts.

With the Arizona House’s passage of HB 2798, the bill is poised for Senate approval, effectively preempting a tool that could enhance community health. This isn’t about holding firm against fentanyl; it reflects a misguided approach to a complex problem.

Dr. Melody Glenn is an addiction and emergency physician at The University of Arizona. Her first book, “Mother of Methadone,” is set to be published by Beacon Press this July.