BREAKING: San Francisco has just recorded its lowest monthly drug overdose deaths since tracking began in 2020. Preliminary data released today shows there were 36 overdose deaths in October, a significant drop from September and the previous record of 37 in October 2022.
This development is crucial for a city grappling with a persistent opioid crisis. The total number of overdose deaths this year now stands at 534, slightly down from 544 at the same time last year. While San Francisco’s Department of Public Health Director Daniel Tsai hailed the decrease as encouraging, he cautioned that the situation remains dire, with over one person dying each day from overdoses.
“That is still 534 people that have died here to date,” Tsai stated, emphasizing the ongoing challenges.
According to Tsai, the decline can be attributed to the city’s proactive measures aimed at connecting individuals with treatment options, both on the streets and in medical settings. The department’s Bringing Expanded Access to Medications program has been pivotal, allowing doctors to prescribe medication for opioid-use disorder and operating 18 hours a day, seven days a week.
As part of this initiative, the city plans to introduce 270 new treatment beds by the end of the year, aiming for a total of 415 beds by 2028. This expansion is critical as officials work to combat the ongoing opioid epidemic.
Dr. Marlene Martin, director of the addiction care team at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, highlighted the extensive efforts to address addiction beyond just specific programs. Since its inception in 2019, the team has assisted around 16,000 individuals struggling with substance use disorders, either through hospital treatment or referrals to other services.
“We meet people at a pivotal moment during hospitalization,” Martin explained about the team’s impact on patient recovery.
Recent data shows that about half of patients prescribed the longer-lasting treatment buprenorphine, known by the brand name BRIXADI, have opted for follow-up doses. This injectable treatment can be administered weekly or monthly, making it a flexible option for those seeking recovery.
Dr. Hilary Kunins, director of behavioral health at the department, confirmed that programs like BRIXADI have seen increased engagement. While specific numbers of returning patients were not disclosed, she stated that tracking these metrics is a priority for the department.
As the city celebrates this milestone, officials remain vigilant about the fluctuating nature of overdose deaths. The ongoing commitment to expanding treatment access and reducing barriers is clear, as San Francisco strives to transform lives amidst a public health crisis.
For those in need, support is available through San Francisco’s dedicated helpline at 888-246-3333. The situation remains dynamic, and updates will follow as the city continues its fight against the opioid epidemic.
