Pierce County Human Services (PCHS) is set to evaluate two essential programs in partnership with J-PAL North America's LEVER Evaluation Incubator, targeting the ongoing opioid crisis in the community. The first evaluation will investigate the impact of extended stays in a fentanyl detox program on the successful completion of inpatient treatment and overall hospital utilization. Trish Crocker, PCHS's grant coordinator, highlighted the need for such evaluations to inform resource allocation and funding decisions effectively. The second program will assess the effectiveness of a mobile distribution unit for medication and outreach services in increasing engagement and reducing substance use among individuals dealing with opioid use disorder. Margo Burnison, a behavioral health manager at PCHS, expressed excitement about using rigorous data analysis to guide local leaders in making informed decisions regarding resource utilization.

Launched in 2023, the LEVER program aims to harness evidence-based practices to address critical public health issues. This collaborative effort demonstrates a commitment to tackling the opioid epidemic through informed strategies and community engagement. PCHS's partnership with J-PAL North America underscores the importance of data in shaping effective responses to health crises.