SCOPE Vision
SCOPE trains first responders on non-
traditional services to better promote
the health, safety, and well-being of
the people in the systems they serve.
Strategies to Coordinate Overdose Prevention Efforts (SCOPE) offers free continuing education to equip and empower first responders (emergency medical services (EMS) and firefighters in Pennsylvania and Ohio to reduce the impact of opioid overdoses in their communities.
First responders play an essential role by aiding those experiencing an overdose and referring patients to local drug and alcohol treatment services. This project aims to increase naloxone administration and eliminate overdose deaths. By empowering first responders with effective and practical strategies, community members at risk of substance use disorder can better access the care they need.
SCOPE Programming
SCOPE projects are currently active in Pennsylvania and Ohio.
SCOPE training provides an overview of several topics that apply to all first responders when assisting patients or community members with SUD:
- Understanding SUD as a disease.
- How trauma-informed care, including an understanding of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), can lead to better patient outcomes.
- Naloxone administration and practices for naloxone leave behind for family and friends of those with SUD.
- How to be part of a recovery-oriented system of care by making a referral to local drug and alcohol services.
- The importance of destigmatizing language and behavior as well as empathy for survivors.
Register
SCOPE offers free training to equip and empower first responders to reduce the impact of opioid overdoses in their communities. Contact us to learn more and schedule an in-person or virtual training session.
SCOPE Impact
Since September 2020, SCOPE Statewide has trained 2028 first responders from 85% percent (57) of Pennsylvania’s counties.
Since January 2022, SCOPE Ohio has trained 95 first responders in Jefferson County, Ohio. In addition, four first responder agencies in Ohio are completing community screenings, providing resources and naloxone leave-behind kits, and referring patients to SUD services.
