Ocala Fire Rescue has launched a special complimentary program for addiction rehabilitation.
The Ocala Recovery Project (ORP) is being funded by a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) grant and the Marion County Hospital District. It is designed to reduce opiate overdose deaths and dependency.
Through a systematic approach comprised of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), outpatient treatment, inpatient treatment and counseling, the ORP addresses participants’ emotional, psychological and physiological well-being. The program strives to help recurring overdose patients, new and expectant mothers suffering from substance dependency, substance-exposed newborns and anyone ready to begin the path toward recovery.
“Addiction can affect anyone, at any time,” said Ocala Fire Rescue Capt. Jesse Blaire. “With a hands-on approach, including emotional support and comprehensive medical care, we are certain that participants will achieve program success.”
According to the CDC, opioids are currently the main driver of drug overdose deaths. Between Jan. 1 and Sept. 30 of this year, first responders in Marion County received 1,101 calls resulting from overdose or poisoning. Moreover, 1,022 doses of the opiate blocking drug, Narcan, were administered in Marion County during this period.
For details about the ORP, contact Blaire at (352) 266-4769.