San Francisco County officials are taking significant steps to enhance substance use services in response to rising demand. During a recent government meeting, the Department of Public Health (DPH) outlined a comprehensive review of the continuum of substance use services available, focusing on utilization, capacity, and challenges faced in fiscal year 2022-2023.

The DPH emphasized the importance of maintaining adequate levels of free and low-cost medical and substance abuse services, as mandated by state regulations. The framework for these services is designed to meet individuals at various stages of change, from pre-contemplation to recovery, ensuring tailored programming that encourages healthier choices.

In fiscal year 2022-2023, approximately 4,600 individuals received treatment for substance use disorders, with a notable two-thirds of these individuals experiencing homelessness. The top substances treated included opioids, methamphetamines, and alcohol. The DPH reported an increase in service demand, with wait times for residential treatment rising from four to five days.

To address these challenges, the DPH is expanding its withdrawal management capacity and exploring additional out-of-county beds to meet the growing need. Plans for 2024 include increasing residential bed capacity, adding crisis stabilization units, and enhancing engagement services to reach individuals who may not actively seek treatment.

The meeting underscored the county's commitment to improving access to substance use services, with a focus on data-driven strategies and community feedback to guide future initiatives. As San Francisco continues to grapple with substance use issues, these efforts aim to provide critical support and resources to those in need.