Providers report progress under Escambia County opioid-abatement funding; $1.7 million remains for next NOFA

Several service providers funded by Escambia County’s opioid-abatement program reported operational progress, client counts and recent service metrics during the board meeting, and staff said about $1.7 million remains available for the next notice of funding availability.

A Community Health of Northwest Florida representative said the organization submitted its final invoice for the funding cycle and "is graciously giving back a little over $1,000." The presenter described cumulative impanelment (active patients with an appointment in the last 90 days) and said Escambia County impanelment now exceeds 350.

Representatives from Lake View described recent outreach and harm‑reduction activity: during the February–March reporting period the program distributed 62 boxes of Narcan, 44 packets of fentanyl test strips (packed in pairs), supplied several wound kits, and conducted a small number of hepatitis and HIV tests while conducting 73 street-outreach contacts. A Lake View OPUS representative said much of that work is street-based rather than clinic-based.

Patty Hyde, with Lake View’s AIM (Adolescence in Motion) and CAT teams, told the board the adolescent program serves nine current clients, has an open case-manager position, and uses interns to support weekly substance‑abuse groups for juvenile‑justice‑referred youth.

Board discussion highlighted broader program outcomes. A speaker reported that the county’s CORE/EMS effort has transitioned more than 600 patients into long‑term care since the program began and cited a 13% recidivism rate (described as a 87% success rate). Staff said some providers have already submitted March reimbursements and that fully executed contracts are in place for the FY2025–26 awardees, which staff listed for the board.

Staff reviewed prior payment dates and told the board there had been no 2026 payments yet; they said past receipts were irregular and that about $1.7 million remains for the next NOFA round. A board member asked staff to prepare consolidated totals by fiscal year and a one‑page summary showing the number of people reached; staff agreed to produce an annual report and summary materials for public and city communications.

The board scheduled a tentative June 8 meeting date pending quorum confirmation and then adjourned.