Opioid Response Coordination

The Opioid Epidemic Outlook

National Opioid Epidemic Outlook: According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2023 there were 107,543 drug overdose deaths in the United States, and 81,083 of those deaths were opioid-related.

State Opioid Epidemic Outlook: According to the Virginia Department of Health, there were approximately 2, 513 drug overdose deaths in Virginia, and approximately 1,910 of those deaths involved fentanyl. These are preliminary numbers which will be finalized in July, 2024.

City of Richmond Opioid Epidemic Outlook: According to the Virginia Department of Health’s Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, preliminary reports in 2023 show approximately 297 overdose deaths in the City of Richmond, and 270 of those deaths from opioids. 

The City of Richmond’s Response to the Opioid Epidemic

Opioid Response Coordination Staff: The City of Richmond employs two full time policy advisors to address the opioid epidemic and support opioid response coordination. 

Michael Fatula, Policy Advisor for Opioid Response Coordination 

Michael is responsible for providing leadership, planning, management, and coordination of the City’s response to the opioid epidemic.  

Jason Alley, Policy Advisor for Opioid Response Community Outreach and Engagement

Jason  is responsible for establishing and maintaining relationships with local service providers, community organizations, and stakeholders to support individuals with opioid use disorder throughout the continuum of care.

Contact Us:

Email: opioidresponse@rva.gov

Phone: (804) 646-5823

Looking for help?

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call: (804) 819-4100