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In 2017, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a public health emergency to address the ongoing national opioid crisis. This crisis is currently affecting millions of Americans, including many New Yorkers. In response to this crisis, the New York State Area Health Education Center (AHEC) System implemented the Opioid Prevention Education Project (OPEP), and received funding from the Federal Human Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The project expands training related to opioid diagnosis, use, treatment and prevention for current health professionals, future practitioners, and the general population in New York State. The Opioid Prevention Education Project focuses on two key components: (1) High School and College Student Awareness, and (2) Community Engagement and Outreach. R-AHEC offers educational events for community members and students to raise awareness about the opioid epidemic, contributes to prevention efforts, and provides resources for communities.
In collaboration with local educational partners, coordinate outreach events addressing opioid misuse, abuse, prevention, stigma, and treatment for current college and high school students.
Educating providers, students, and communities to combat the opioid epidemic across New York State.