On October 1, 2024, Director Erika Lautenbach of Whatcom County Health and Community Services (WCHCS) met with the Health Board and Public Health Advisory Board (PHAB) to provide an update on the Fentanyl Operations Plan. In response to the growing fentanyl crisis, Whatcom County has taken significant action to protect our community. Following the Executive Order issued earlier this year, our county is prioritizing a comprehensive, multi-level approach to combat the devastating effects of fentanyl and other opioids. This is a serious issue, and we are dedicated to ensuring that our response is both immediate and impactful.
“We are fighting the fentanyl crisis on many different fronts and with many different partners, and it’s encouraging to see the progress that has been made over the past six months,” County Executive Satpal Sidhu said. “I want to recognize and thank the people within our organization and in the community, who are doing this work and directly helping individuals struggling with addiction. We are seeing the positive impact of your effort.”
The Fentanyl Operations Plan, enacted in May 2024 and built around the PITA model (Prevention, Intervention, Treatment, and Aftercare/Recovery), is making a difference in our community. This balanced approach ensures we address the problem from multiple angles—working to prevent opioid use, intervening early, expanding treatment options, and supporting long-term recovery.
Recent Highlights from Our Ongoing Efforts
- Naloxone Accessibility: We've partnered with local agencies to provide community-based free naloxone kit dispenser boxes across the county. These boxes will provide life-saving naloxone to those who need it most, with more installations planned.
- Substance Use Professional at Emergency Department: Thanks to a grant from the North Sound Behavioral Health Administrative Services Organization, we are partnering with PeaceHealth to embed a Substance Use Disorder Professional in the Emergency Department. This expert will help connect individuals who have experienced an overdose with treatment and resources immediately.
- Overdose Response Behavioral Health Specialist: A North Sound Behavioral Health Administrative Services Organization grant has allowed us to hire a temporary Overdose Response Behavioral Health Specialist. This specialist will follow up with individuals post-overdose to connect them with services. Another specialist has been added to partner with our Street Medicine and Safety & Support Programs (SSP), further supporting at-risk populations.
- Naloxone Distribution: So far in 2024, we have distributed 5,218 doses of naloxone through various outreach programs, events, and requests. This number doesn't include doses provided through EMS or other trainings.
Read our status update document for a more detailed look at the Fentanyl Operations Plan initiatives and our ongoing progress.
A Broader Response
Addressing the fentanyl crisis requires more than just one solution—it demands a broad, cross-community effort. Our work spans prevention and treatment strategies and includes collaborations across public health, law enforcement, and community-based organizations. Together, we are making strides toward building a safer, healthier community.
Enhancing Access to Services
Our plan, in collaboration with community partners, is focused on improving access to the critical services and resources needed by those impacted by fentanyl. From expanding prevention programs and integrating support within healthcare settings to increasing the availability of life-saving naloxone, our goal is to reduce harm and enhance the overall health and well-being of our community.
Stay Informed and Get Involved
We are proud of the progress we’ve made, but there is still much to do. As we continue to implement our Fentanyl Operations Plan, we will keep the community updated with regular reports and new developments.
For more information, local data and resources, including where to find naloxone or how to get help, visit whatcomoverdoseprevention.org or follow us on social media for real-time updates.
Learn more about the Fentanyl Operations Plan and its initiatives:
