San Francisco County officials are taking significant steps to enhance the city’s response to substance use disorders, particularly focusing on stimulant and opioid use. During a recent government meeting, key discussions highlighted the need for expanded contingency management and improved measurement of service effectiveness.

The Department of Public Health (DPH) emphasized the importance of transitioning to an electronic health record system, Epic, expected to launch in late spring or early summer. This upgrade aims to provide better data to address the community's needs and improve service delivery.

A central point of discussion was the approach to treatment for opioid use disorder. Officials noted that medications like buprenorphine and methadone have been shown to reduce mortality rates by 50% compared to non-medication treatments. This evidence supports the rationale for prioritizing medication-assisted treatment, especially in the context of the potent fentanyl crisis.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the need for tailored recovery options, acknowledging that not all individuals respond to the same treatment methods. The DPH is committed to expanding residential care options, including transitional housing for women with dual diagnoses, to provide comprehensive support.

The conversation also touched on contingency management for stimulant use disorders, which involves incentivizing healthier behaviors. Studies indicate that this approach, particularly for conditions like methamphetamine and cocaine use, is more effective than traditional psychosocial therapies.

Lastly, officials are exploring the acquisition of additional withdrawal management beds to enhance the city’s capacity to support individuals in need of immediate care. The DPH is in discussions with the Salvation Army regarding budget considerations for these uncontracted beds.

These initiatives reflect San Francisco County's ongoing commitment to addressing substance use disorders through evidence-based strategies and a focus on individualized care, aiming to improve outcomes for residents facing these challenges.