Fatal Drug Overdoses: GMU Leading $8.3M Treatment Research

FAIRFAX, VA — George Mason University is spearheading a state-wide effort to reduce fatal drug overdoses in Virginia.

The Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services received an $8.3 million federal grant that will fund a project based at Mason called the Virginia Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment project (VA-SBIRT).

The school will train and connect health care and behavioral health specialists at 11 clinics in Northern Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley.

According to a release, the project will help front-line health care professionals curb risky and problematic drug use in its beginning stages by helping them systematically identify risk factors and offer drug abuse screening.

Individuals who need help will receive counseling, treatment and support services.

The school also is creating a central data depository so health care professionals can analyze trends and improve strategies — a healthcare exchange is expected to serve as a model for statewide implementation.

Said Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe: "This collaborative approach is an important part of our work to bring positive change to the lives of the many Virginians who are struggling with the pain of addiction. . .Fatal drug overdoses are the most common cause of accidental death in Virginia. Deaths from prescription drug overdoses doubled in Virginia over the past 15 years, while heroin-related deaths tripled from 2011 to 2015."

Photo: George Mason University