Maanas Sharma
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Research Mentor(s): Jason Goldstick, Research Assistant Professor
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Department of Emergency Medicine, Michigan Medicine
Presentation Date: Thursday, April 22, 2021
Session: Session 6 (4pm-4:50pm)
Breakout Room: Room 13
Presenter: 4
Abstract
Background: The opioid epidemic has grown across Michigan with very few areas having access to real-time data on opioid overdoses. A project was conducted by the CDC-funded University of Michigan Injury Prevention Center and Michigan High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) to develop a system for near real-time opioid surveillance. This system, called the System for Opioid Overdose Surveillance (SOS) was designed to inform data-driven opioid overdose prevention and response efforts with the goal of reducing overdose injuries and fatalities. Methods: In a Genesee County project, community stakeholders composed of public health, public safety, and community outreach service providers were gathered for a focus group, and then interviewed to evaluate how near real-time opioid overdose data can inform prevention work and barriers to prevention efforts. Stakeholders received SOS data reports for their jurisdiction on a regular basis for eight weeks, and their feedback was solicited over time through a survey. A final focus group emphasized the mobilization of data-driven coordinated community responses through near real-time reports. Data was analyzed to create a coordinated community response toolkit. Results: Findings suggest SOS is being used to impact local planning and responses to opioid overdoses. One major finding from the Genesee County project was the application of zip codes in aiding community stakeholders. The use of zip codes, one of many data visualizations in the SOS, allowed for stakeholders to pinpoint locations most affected by opioid overdoses within the community. Conclusions: Through the Genesee County Project, the SOS dashboard helped aid in creating “best fit” strategies for specific areas within larger communities. The Genesee County Project also showcases how near real-time data surveillance can benefit communities. Keywords: Opioids, Surveillance, Genesee County
Authors: Maanas Sharma, Amanda Ballesteros, Jason Goldstick
Research Method: Qualitative Study
https://systemforoverdosesurveillance.com/search
https://injurycenter.umich.edu/opioid-overdose/
