This program works to reduce opioid related overdose deaths in the tribal community by providing training and distributing Narcan. Narcan is a potentially lifesaving medication designed to help reverse the effects of an opioid overdose in minutes. If you have friends or family taking opioid medications or using heroin Narcan can help save their life in the event of an overdose.   

The Opioid Health Education Coordinator also helps prevent overdose by providing support to patients in the Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) program. Medication Assisted Treatment at the KTHFS Wellness Center prescribes those with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) Suboxone to help stabilize patients by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. The Opioid Health Education Coordinator attends all medical appointments with patients at the Wellness Center and works with patients on a variety of activities chosen by the patients including creating resumes, job searching, housing search, finding and practicing coping skills, etc.

Additionally the Opioid Health Education coordinator collaborates with other public health teammates and KTHFS departments to plan safe and sober family events.