Maine EMS implements the first direct EMS referral program that connects persons experiencing SUD with the existing OPTIONS Liaison Program following interactions with the 9-1-1 system.
AUGUSTA, MAINE – The Maine Bureau of Emergency Medical Services (Maine EMS) has initiated its first pilot site in one of the nation’s first EMS-based direct substance use disorder (SUD) referral programs. This new program, called the Maine EMS OPTIONS Referral Program, will enable EMS clinicians (emergency medical responders, emergency medical technicians, advanced emergency medical technicians, and paramedics) to refer Mainers experiencing SUD directly to existing support resources within their area.
The ongoing opioid crisis continues to affect Mainers, with over 27,000 activations of the 9-1-1 system for suspected overdose received by EMS agencies across the state in 2021 and 2022. Of those calls, approximately 30% of patients refuse transport to the emergency department for further treatment and evaluation. “This new program will empower Maine EMS clinicians to connect patients experiencing substance use disorder with local treatment options, harm reduction resources, and peer support within the patient’s community without a dramatic increase on the workload of EMS professionals,” said Maine EMS Director J. Sam Hurley. “EMS’ goal has always been to do the very best for our patients, and this program furthers that mission of enabling EMS clinicians to connect persons experiencing SUD with the resources and support to begin on the road to treatment and recovery – ultimately reducing morbidity and mortality related to SUD throughout the State of Maine.”
The Maine EMS OPTIONS Referral Program will allow EMS clinicians to refer to OPTIONS Liaisons directly. OPTIONS (Overdoes Prevention Through Intensive Outreach, Naloxone, and Safety) is an initiative developed by Maine DHHS in 2021 to combat the opioid crisis. By referring individuals experiencing SUD to their local OPTIONS Liaison, patients can be connected to treatment and resources for harm reduction, naloxone access, and recovery support services.
Bar Harbor Fire Department is the first pilot site for this program. Deputy Chief John Lennon expressed his excitement for the pilot, saying, “We were very eager to be a part of this pilot because it fits in so nicely with the Naloxone Leave-Behind Program and our community Narcan public outreach. There was a gap in accessibility where patients were expected to find services for themselves after we [EMS] left the scene from an overdose call, but this program automatically connects patients to an OPTIONS Liaison from the field.”
Maine EMS will continue to expand this program to additional pilot sites through the end of the year, with anticipated state-wide implementation in 2024.
For more information about Maine Emergency Medical Services, please visit: www.maine.gov/ems
For more information about OPTIONS, please visit www.knowyouroptions.me