As the number of opioid overdose deaths rose dramatically in the late 1990s, it became clear the deaths were not caused by illicit street drugs, but rather by highly addictive, overprescribed painkillers. After the federal government cracked down on these prescriptions, many who had become addicted to these medications switched to what was most available—first heroin, and later fentanyl.
Supported by the Bloomberg Philanthropies Overdose Prevention Initiative, the Michigan State Medical Society — a leader in the state’s healthcare community—decided to act. Public Sector Consultants helped the partners create and execute a successful strategy to address the social stigma and legal barriers surrounding harm-reduction tools such as naloxone and syringe service programs to reduce overdose deaths in Michigan. We didn’t know it then, but this impactful work would carry on for several years and continue through a new client as the opioid epidemic surged.
With our ability to manage a chorus of voices to advocate for change, we set to work. We started by engaging public health organizations and SSPs already operating in Michigan, to establish the Michigan Overdose Prevention Coalition. With key partners and MOPC members, we developed a comprehensive set of educational and advocacy materials to support our grassroots advocacy and marketing campaigns.
The playbook worked. In July 2022, Public Act 176 passed and new laws dramatically expanded access to naloxone in our state, while protecting those distributing or administering it from liability.
We know the fight isn’t over and continue to advocate for the legal authorization of SSPs throughout the state.
SSPs connect people with comprehensive care and substance abuse treatment, provide clean needles and offer a place for needle exchange to reduce syringe litter and needlestick injuries. Currently, syringes and other equipment provided by public health programs are not classified as drug paraphernalia under state law. However, many Michigan communities criminalize their possession without exemptions for public health services. This means SSP staff, participants and people trying to distribute (or obtain) sterile syringes or discard used needles safely can face criminal charges depending on their location.
In 2023, PSC continued to advocate for SSPs in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Michigan Association of Counties.
Although public health experts support harm reduction as a successful approach to the overdose crisis, many social stigmas and legal restrictions prevent them from being used.
Recognizing these barriers, we have worked with our clients and their partners to use a compelling combination of data and storytelling to change the hearts and minds of the public and policymakers.
On the data side of things, we conducted extensive research and interviewed law enforcement, care providers, SSP administrators, volunteers and participants.
With this solid understanding in place, we proceeded to build engaging strategies for advocacy and marketing.
In addition, MOPC members have played a valuable role in the process by sharing their personal and professional stories related to substance-use overdose with the coalition, the public and legislators.
After working with MOPC members to identify the most effective key messages to use for our target audiences, PSC implemented its marketing and communications plans, which include:
Normalizing harm reduction is only one leg in the race to help Michigan escape the despair and tragedy caused by the opioid overdose epidemic. With PSC’s help, our partners can continue the fight to equip people with lifesaving tools such as naloxone and the public health services provided by SSPs. By continuing to push for change, we can reduce overdose deaths in Michigan.
