BALTIMORE, MD — In a significant move to tackle the ongoing overdose crisis, the Maryland Department of Health launched the Maryland Overdose Data Dashboard today. This new tool, accessible at bit.ly/Overdose?Data, aims to provide a clearer picture of overdose trends across the state, enabling more effective responses to this pressing issue.
The dashboard replaces the previous system found at StopOverdose.maryland.gov. It offers enhanced features, including real-time data updates, comprehensive historical trend analysis, and demographic insights. These features are expected to empower community leaders, healthcare providers, and policymakers with timely and actionable information to combat overdoses.
Lt. Governor Miller expressed deep commitment to this initiative. "Overdoses have torn apart families across Maryland, leaving an irreplaceable void," Miller stated. "With this updated tool, our partners can better target interventions and connect individuals to the vital care they need. I am passionate about leading this effort under the Moore-Miller administration."
Key features of the Maryland Overdose Data Dashboard include:
- Unified Data: Integration of data on fatal and non-fatal overdoses, including EMS naloxone administrations, with the option to search by zip code.
- Timely Data Updates: The new dashboard reduces the data release delay from 90 to 30 days, allowing for more rapid response to emerging trends.
- Historical Trend Analysis: Users can analyze long-term trends at the jurisdictional level to understand community-specific challenges and progress.
- Demographic Insights: The tool offers detailed demographic breakdowns to help tailor overdose response strategies across different communities.
Dr. Laura Herrera Scott, Maryland Health Secretary, emphasized the dashboard's role in enhancing statewide overdose response strategies. "This dashboard equips those on the front lines of the overdose crisis with critical data to guide their efforts," Dr. Scott explained.
The development of the dashboard was heavily influenced by community feedback, highlighting the state's commitment to a collaborative approach. "We've incorporated extensive input from local and community partners who emphasized the need for accessible data visualization," noted Emily Keller, Special Secretary of Overdose Response. "This tool is a direct response to that need, designed to help our partners react swiftly to overdose trends."
Preliminary data from the dashboard is promising, showing a decline in fatal overdoses. In 2023, Maryland reported 2,513 fatal overdoses, a 2.5% decrease from the previous year. The trend appears to continue into 2024, signaling potential progress in the state's fight against this epidemic.
By providing comprehensive and up-to-date data, Maryland aims to bolster its efforts to prevent overdoses and save lives, marking a critical step forward in the ongoing battle against drug-related fatalities.
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