Overdose Deaths Are Falling—Equity in Care Matters More Than Ever

After years of rising overdose deaths, we are finally seeing a decline—thanks to public health solutions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), overdose deaths in the U.S. dropped by 24% between July 2023 and July 2024. [EM2]?This progress is a testament to the power of harm reduction strategies, including wider access to naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl test strips, and life-saving treatments like Naltrexone and Buprenorphine.?However, acknowledge that not all communities are benefiting equally from these advances.?

According to a recent report released by the Boston Public Health Commission, in 2023, the opioid overdose mortality rate for Black residents in Boston was 131% higher than the rate for white residents. The rate for Latinx residents was 48% higher than the rate for white residents.

Overdose rates among Black men have continued to rise?due to systemic barriers, including economic instability, reduced access to evidence-based treatment, and fear of incarceration. Additionally, the increased presence of fentanyl in the drug supply has also disproportionately impacted urban Black communities, highlighting the urgent need for targeted harm reduction efforts. Fortunately, early 2024 data shows signs that this trend may be reversing.

NeighborHealth Recovery Services is proud to be a part of this success story and remains committed to addressing these disparities. As a Community Naloxone Provider,?a designation by the State Office of Pharmacy Services (SOPS), we offer free Narcan to our community—no questions asked. Additionally, we provide harm reduction medication, including Brixadi, Suboxone, Sublocade, Naltrexone, and Vivitrol, as well as expert therapists and providers who specialize in helping people overcome addiction.?

Our organization recognizes that reducing stigma, improving access to care, and expanding culturally responsive treatment are critical in reversing these trends. Our Narcan dispensers are available at our three main clinical locations in East Boston, including 79 Paris Street, 10 Gove Street, and 20 Maverick Street, as well as in Boston’s South End, inside the front entrance at 1601 Washington Street.

NeighborHealth’s vision of healthcare is firmly rooted in compassion, accessibility, and dignity for all individuals. As a trusted provider in the Greater Boston area, we will continue to raise awareness and expand programs tailored to high-risk populations, including Black men who face disproportionate challenges in accessing addiction care.?

The fight against overdose deaths is far from over, and our organization remains vigilant in advocating for equitable healthcare solutions that address the social determinants of health. Every dose of Narcan distributed is a potential life saved.

Whether you’re a healthcare professional or not, we encourage everyone to familiarize themselves with how to use Narcan by watching this short instructional video:?Narcan Training Video.

For more information about the Recovery Services programs at NeighborHealth please visit: https://www.neighborhealth.com/en/care-and-services/programs/recovery-programs/

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Written by:

Kara Mulvey

Substance Use Disorder Community Engagement Specialist, Recovery Services, NeigborHealth

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