Surge in Suspected Opioid Overdoses: Where to Find Support in Douglas County
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has identified a troubling increase in suspected opioid-related emergency department visits in Eastern Kansas, with Douglas County accounting for the majority, 20 visits between March 9 and May 10, 2025. This is more than double the number typically expected during this timeframe.
As our community experiences this concerning rise in opioid-related emergencies, it’s more important than ever to know where to turn for support, resources, and lifesaving care.
Douglas County Resources for Harm Reduction and Treatment
Several local organizations offer harm reduction tools, treatment, and recovery support:
Heartland Community Health Center – Offers MAT, integrated primary and mental health care, and sliding-fee services. New patients and walk-ins accepted. Call 785-841-7297 for support.
DCCCA – Provides free naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl test strips, and substance use assessments every Tuesday at 1739 E 23rd St. A free naloxone vending machine is available at the Transit Center (2314 Bob Billings Pkwy).
Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health – Distributes free naloxone and fentanyl test strips to the public at their clinic at 200 Maine St. No appointment needed.
The Treatment and Recovery Center of Douglas County (TRC) – Open 24/7/365 for medication-assisted detox, substance use treatment, and mental health crisis stabilization.
In response to the recent data, Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health has issued the following news release detailing the overdose spike, the importance of naloxone access, and the full range of community resources available:
About Medication Assisted Treatment
Heartland Community Health Center is committed to supporting individuals living with substance use disorder through our Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program, which combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral health services for a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to recovery.
What is MAT?
MAT, or Medication-Assisted Treatment, is a clinically effective approach to treating substance use disorders. It helps reduce withdrawal symptoms, suppress cravings, and block the euphoric effects of opioids, supporting individuals in their recovery journey while restoring brain chemistry over time.
MAT is not a “one-size-fits-all” solution or simply replacing one drug with another. Rather, it’s a long-term support tool that has been shown to:
Improve survival and treatment retention
Reduce illicit drug use and criminal activity
Support employment and stable housing
Improve birth outcomes for pregnant patients
For opioid use disorder, Heartland provides buprenorphine and naltrexone as part of MAT. These medications can be safely used for months, years, or even a lifetime, depending on the individual’s needs.
Welcoming All Who Need Care
Heartland Community Health Center provides comprehensive, compassionate care to individuals and families, regardless of income or insurance status.
Services include:
Primary care
Mental and behavioral health
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Dental care
Pharmacy
Wraparound support services
A sliding fee scale is available based on income, and new patients and walk-ins are welcome. No one is turned away due to inability to pay.
