MOUNT VERNON — Drug overdose rates in Ohio have increased dramatically in recent years, impacting individuals and families throughout the state. Much of this increase can be attributed to the pervasiveness of fentanyl in the illicit drug supply.
According to the Ohio Department of Health, 81% of Ohio overdose deaths in 2020 involved fentanyl, often in combination with other drugs. Fentanyl test strips (FTS) allow individuals who use drugs to test their drugs for fentanyl before consumption. If the test is positive, this alerts the user that they should take measures to reduce their risk of an overdose, preferably by not using the drug.
The Mount Vernon Municipal Court is proud to participate in a study with Nationwide Children’s Hospital evaluating a novel strategy for preventing drug overdoses. The primary goal of the study is to provide evidence to determine whether fentanyl test strips are an effective tool for preventing drug overdoses.
The research team is recruiting 1,750 participants from probation and specialized dockets in Ohio courts. Trained study staff are enrolling eligible participants and will follow up with participants bi-weekly for two years.
“Drug overdoses are a significant problem in Knox County. We see the impact they have on families every day in our criminal justice system,” said Judge John Thatcher. “We are hopeful that by participating in this research study we can help keep our citizens safer and prevent overdoses in Ohio.”
Individuals who are interested in participating in the study must be on probation or enrolled in a drug court program at a participating Ohio court. Participation is voluntary and study participants are compensated for their time.
