lack of access to treatment, other factors that were listed by the speakers as challenges were the limited awareness about substance use disorders and acceptance of the problem; insufficient funding to support efforts and socioeconomic elements, such as unemployment and poverty levels.
Maria Fruth, the President of the Health Care Foundation of La Porte, stated at the event that she believes it is important to have solid data in order to allow the public to understand the opioid epidemic and try to mend the negative impacts of it.
She added that the study was also intended to emphasize what is already working and continue improving.
Her foundation has the goal of helping La Porte become one of the top ten healthiest communities in Indiana by 2030 through initiatives such as the latest opioid study, strategic planning, community assessment, and collaborative efforts.
