‘Starts with One’ opioid use prevention campaign toolkit available for providers
In Washington and throughout the United States, prescription opioids are being misused at an alarming rate. Opioids are now one of the leading causes of injury-related deaths in Washington State. More people die from overdose than from car crashes.¹ While we have come a long way in addressing the opioid epidemic, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this issue, and we are seeing all forms of substance misuse, including opioid misuse, increase substantially.
We understand opioids may be the right choice for patients — and sometimes necessary — for severe pain management. We recognize the risk is less if taken only for a short time and as prescribed.
We’re seeking to educate those at a higher risk for opioid misuse through a statewide prevention campaign. Starts with One — funded by the Washington State Health Care Authority — is in its fourth year, and is a campaign designed to inform and educate young adults, their parents, and older adults about the dangers of prescription drug misuse and the importance of safe storage, use, and disposal.
We have developed several resources to help dental and medical providers talk to their patients about the risks of opioids. Providers have great influence in their communities and can educate and inform patients and others about the potential risks of opioids. To help in communicating about this important issue, the Health Care Authority has a provider toolkit which includes:
• Posters to hang in waiting rooms and exam rooms.
• Informational rack cards for counter displays, or in waiting rooms for patients. These cards can also be added to pharmacy bags for patients who may be receiving an opioid prescription, to help start a conversation about the importance of taking them with caution.
• Stickers to include in dental to-go bags or to place in medical provider waiting rooms for patients.
• Ready-made social media content.
• An article to share in patient newsletters or to post to the practice website.
We appreciate the support in this important effort. For a digital download of the toolkit and for more information about the Starts with One campaign, visit www.GetTheFactsRx.com.
If you have questions about the materials or need technical assistance, reach out to the campaign manager, Annie Blake-Burke, at annieb@wearedh.com.
1 Washington State Department of Health
