Kansas Municipalities Fight Addiction Regional Summit-Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The event focused on discussing effective strategies to address the opioid crisis, emphasizing collaboration and strategic planning in Kansas. Key speakers included Sherry Watkins from the Opioid Response Network and Chris Teeters from the Kansas Attorney General's Office, along with various panelists from Kansas municipalities. They offered insights on leveraging data, understanding community needs, and utilizing opioid settlement funds effectively.<br /><br />Main strategies discussed include focusing on a public health approach, emphasizing evidence-based interventions, and addressing different substance use disorders, all while maintaining transparency and community engagement. The Opioid Response Network stresses the importance of incorporating voices from individuals with lived experiences in substance use planning to gain a comprehensive understanding of community needs.<br /><br />The event highlighted successful collaborations within Kansas, like those in Sedgwick County and Wichita, where pooling resources and strategic planning led to efficient use of funds. Discussions also covered barriers faced, such as managing collaborations across cities and counties, and ensuring equitable resource allocation.<br /><br />Key takeaways included the importance of planning strategically on how to use funds over the settlement period, advocating for educational and prevention programs, and maintaining accountability through data and communication with the public. The Kansas Sunflower Foundation and other resources were recommended for data and strategic planning support. Overall, the summit provided participants with tools and connections to better tackle the ongoing opioid crisis within their communities.

Keywords

opioid crisis

Kansas

strategic planning

Sherry Watkins

Chris Teeters

Opioid Response Network

public health approach

evidence-based interventions

substance use disorders

community engagement

Sedgwick County

Wichita

resource allocation

educational programs

Kansas Sunflower Foundation