Congressman Fitzpatrick Launches Opioid Abuse Survey

Bucks County's Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick is conducting a survey to gauge constituent opinion on the federal government’s role in tackling America’s opioid epidemic.

“Heroin and prescription opioid abuse are having devastating effects in communities across our county. Last year, Bucks County reported 117 fatal overdoses, half of which involved heroin,” said Fitzpatrick.

The survey is accessible at www.fitzpatrick.house.gov/DrugAbuseSurvey.

The local congressman says he's trying to gauge whether his constituents believe federal funding for research into treatment should be increased, or if the federal government should expand access and use of naloxone, an antidote to reverse opioid overdose.

The state has recently announced a "Center of Excellence" will open at Family Service Association of Bucks County to provide treatment to residents with opioid-related substance use disorders.

The center will have navigators to assist people with opioid-related substance use disorders through the medical system, and ensure they receive behavioral and physical health care, as well as any evidence-based medication-assisted treatment needed, state officials said.

Patch file photo