Public‑health official outlines Haywood County opioid treatment program, asks board to authorize fund appropriation if state does not carry funds

Dr. Sarah Banks, speaking under administrative reports, presented a public‑health approach to substance use disorder and reviewed program outcomes, partnerships and next steps. "This program will increase access by providing case management, linkage to treatment, resources, transportation, housing resources, employment opportunities, and other services," she said, describing a holistic model that pairs recovery supports with medical care.

Banks said the county’s program began admitting patients in June 2023 and has enrolled 29 people to date: six from recovery court, 15 from the detention center or sheriff’s referrals, eight from community partners and two from neighboring Buncombe County who sought services in Haywood. The program has recorded 246 total patient visits, 164 negative drug screens and nine outstanding death certificates countywide. Banks also reported that fentanyl involvement in confirmed substance‑use deaths rose from nearly 13% in 2020 to 32% in 2021, and that so far in 2025 the county has recorded four substance‑related deaths (her partial 2025 figures were described as current through early June).

At the meeting a commissioner asked staff to prepare a resolution to spend local opioid funds if the General Assembly does not carry forward state treatment funds; staff said they will return at the July 21 meeting with a resolution if state action does not materialize. Banks and commissioners emphasized the county’s multi‑agency partnerships, outreach and the value of individuals who have completed recovery programs in supporting recruitment and retention in treatment.