Officials from the South Dakota Department of Social Services briefed the House Health and Human Services Committee yesterday on the growing opioid drug crisis. Deputy Secretary Amy Iversen says they’re breaking it into four key areas
She said several new strategies will be used to address the growing drug problem, including updating and developing guidelines for opioid prescribers to ensure proper use of the medications. They also want to raise public awareness.
Her department is also pushing for an expansion of medication assisted treatment, which will combine medications with addiction counseling for individuals addicted to drugs. Expanding peer support services to help people manage their addiction is another key component, along with reducing the illicit supply of opioids: (dl 121)
Iversen said her department will also be reviewing the records of top opioid users as they continue to expand the drug take-back programs around the state.
(KXLG)