Below are resources compiled to help local governments better understand the opioid settlements and select appropriate strategies for their community.
Featured Resources
Complete List of Resources
The following resources have been compiled by the NC Department of Health and Human Services to help local governments.
The resources below are organized by level.
Jump to: Introductory Resources | Intermediate Resources | Advanced Resources
Introductory Resources
NC Association of County Commissioners Webinar
A webinar that provides an overview of the opioid settlement, the NC MOA, and available resources
NC Opioid and Substance Use Action Plan Data Dashboard
See what your county is already implementing to respond to the opioid crisis
Reach out to your local health department
Meaningful Involvement of People who Use Drugs
Explore the history, benefits, and best practices of the meaningful involve of people who use drugs – from AIDS United
Harm Reduction in North Carolina
A 40-minute documentary that highlights efforts to reduce harm surrounding substance use
Collection of Harm Reduction Webinars
A collection of on-demand webinars, videos, and podcasts covering harm reduction topics
SAMHSA Harm Reduction Framework
A comprehensive framework that covers the pillars and principles of harm reduction
Intermediate Resources
Overdose Prevention Technical Assistance
View a 2-page Overdose Prevention Technical Assistance Guide from the NC Injury and Violence Prevention Branch
An initative that provides resources, support, and facts about the opioid crisis in North Carolina
Tangible suggestions of actions to take to address the opioid crisis in your area
Evidence-Based Strategies for Preventing Opioid Overdose: What’s Working in the United States
CDC document to assist in understanding and navigating effective strategies to prevent opioid overdose
Menu of Harm Reduction Resources
A comprehensive menu of harm reduction-related resources
A 30-minute documentary that explains what “cultural humility” is and why we need it
Quick Guide to Conducting a Needs Assessment
This NACo resource describes the basics of conducting a needs assessment at the county-level with relevant case examples
Advanced Resources
Key Recommendations for Community-Based Overdose Prevention Programs
1-page overview of the top suggestions for successful programs from Local Health Departments
Qualitative Study of Local Health Department Programs to Prevent Opioid Overdose
Summary of study findings, including features that facilitate effective planning and challenges to implementation
Best Practices for Harm Reduction Workers
2-page list of best practices for working with clients who use drugs and best practices for harm reduction works
Health Equity Guiding Principles for Inclusive Communication
CDC online resource to help public health professionals address all people inclusively and respectfully
Opioid Settlement Funding: Support for Maximum Impact
Tools and methods to assist local leaders with selecting strategies to implement, provided by MAHEC
Criminalization and Experience of Violence: Practitioner’s Guide for Preventing Further Harm
2-pages of recommendations for providers who work with people who experience interpersonal and structural violence related to drug use and other factors
Tips for Working with People Who Use Drugs – in the Pandemic Era and Beyond
A 3-page document from the Center for Innovation and Engagement that covers best practices for working with people who use drugs during COVID-19 and beyond
Department of Justice Guidance on Protections for People with Opioid Use Disorder
An 8-page overview of the protections provided to people with opioid use disorder by the Americans with Disabilities Act
