Last week, Northpoint Washington hosted Congressman Rick Larsen, representing the state’s Second Congressional District. The visit was part of Rep. Larsen’s efforts to develop a comprehensive plan for combatting the opioid epidemic in the state. During his visit, Larsen commended Northpoint Washington for its dedication to immediate and effective addiction treatment.
“Representative Larsen’s visit is an acknowledgement of the importance of our work and the positive influence we have on our community,” said Patrick Wilder, MSW, LCSW, Vice President of the Northpoint Washington Market. “We extend our gratitude to Rep. Larsen for taking the time to witness firsthand the impact of our staff and its collective efforts.”
The Opioid Crisis in Northwest Washington
Northwest Washington has been suffering some of the most severe consequences of the ongoing opioid epidemic, with recent statistics highlighting the urgency of prevention, interdiction, treatment, and recovery.
Recent data reveals that Washington state experienced the largest percentage increase in drug overdose deaths in the United States between February 2022 and February 2023. In the area that makes up Rep. Larsen’s Congressional District—parts of Snohomish County and all of Whatcom, Skagit, Island, and San Juan counties—synthetic opioids like fentanyl have been the primary culprits behind most of the overdose deaths.
According to Larsen’s own district opioid report, more than 650 people in Snohomish County have died of opioid-related overdoses since 2020. Meanwhile, Whatcom County saw a drastic increase in opioid overdose deaths in recent years, even exceeding the statewide average for the first time in 2022.
Larsen’s Response to the Opioid Crisis
In response to these grim statistics, Congressman Rick Larsen laid out a four-pillar approach to address the various facets of the epidemic. These four pillars are:
- Prevention. Larsen’s proposed prevention efforts involve education and awareness programs to inform the public about the dangers of opioid use and addressing the root causes that lead individuals to use opioids for the first time.
- Interdiction. The Congressional report underscores the need to interdict the flow of opioids into Northwest Washington communities. This involves collaboration between local governments, law enforcement, and federal agencies to disrupt the distribution networks spreading these substances.
- Treatment. The report advocates for the expansion of treatment facilities. During his visit, Larsen highlighted the critical role that organizations like Northpoint Washington play in treating addiction to opiates, fentanyl, and other painkillers.
- Recovery. The support of long-term recovery for individuals, the report states, would involve the implementation of initiatives empowering individuals to successfully reintegrate into society.
“It is time to regain the momentum to combat the opioid epidemic and save lives,” Larsen said. “Congress and the Biden administration must do more to coordinate with local governments, Tribal communities, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and community partners who are on the front lines of the epidemic. This begins with understanding the challenges communities are facing and working together to break down barriers to lasting solutions.”
Northpoint Washington’s Commitment
In alignment with Larsen’s four-pillar approach, Northpoint Washington stands ready to address the urgent need for effective addiction treatment. The 44-bed residential treatment center in Edmonds, Wash. provides comprehensive fentanyl, opiate, heroin, and painkiller addiction treatment.
“We can accommodate same-day admissions and our 24-hour access lines can connect people with our admissions department,” Wilder said. “We’re here, we want to help, and we’re passionate about the care we provide.”
Reach Out to Northpoint Washington Today
Whether you or a loved one needs treatment for an opioid, opiate, or fentanyl addiction, Northpoint Washington can help. Our experienced and compassionate staff specializes in comprehensive treatment. Don’t wait until it’s too late to get the support you or your loved one deserves. Call 425.405.4324 or complete our online form now to get help.