Portland’s decrease in overdose deaths shows ‘step in the right direction’

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — For the first time in years, overdose deaths are trending down across the country, including Portland.

With emergency calls flooding in daily, the city is still in crisis mode. However, the CHAT program — a proactive intervention tool run in partnership with Portland Fire & Rescue — is making a real difference, responding to more than 750 overdose calls this year.

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"We've seen a decline in overdose calls and our call volume has decreased in the same trend line as the county's, as well as reported nationally," said Michelle Lavina, CHAT community health nurse case manager.

According to the CDC, there has been a 14% drop in opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. From 2022 to 2023. In Oregon, overdose deaths dropped 72%, with 392 reported so far this year, according to Oregon Health Authority.

Experts say the dip is due to better access to addiction treatment and naloxone, the life-saving overdose reversal drug.

"It's now an extra tool for the community to use and for first responders to use to help more people," Lavina said.

PF&R's mobile medication program also gives overdose victims buprenorphine to ease withdrawal and boost recovery chances. They are hoping to expand the CHAT program this summer.

"We hope it will expand county-wide to provide more medication for more community members in need," Lavina said.

As the crisis continues, Portland's efforts show promise, and the state as a whole is seeing real support. In the last decade, Oregon secured over $645 million from pharmaceutical settlements to combat the epidemic and boost education and recovery efforts.

"I think it's wonderful. It's a huge step in the right direction," Lavina said.