WQIO Ohio's Super Station
Licking County, Ohio – The Licking County Board of Commissioners and the Licking County Health Department are pleased to announce a partnership that will bring a Community Navigator Program to Licking County. The navigator will work to assist individuals with substance use disorders and those that may suffer from other underlying factors that could increase the likelihood of substance use disorders with finding the necessary medical treatment. In addition to making referrals, the navigator will follow up with each individual referred to assist with ensuring they are are taking advantage of the services available to them and to address barriers such as transportation.
The Licking County Community Navigator Program will provide a “one stop shop” through education on treatment options, connecting people with local resources through a referral process, providing individualized support, implementing prevention education, and coordinating wrap-around services, all of which increase the likelihood of positive outcomes. The goal of the program is to achieve a healthier Licking County by reducing the number of residents using illicit drugs in our community as well as reducing fatal and non-fatal overdoses.
“Establishing this type of program has been a priority for our department, and it is contained in our strategic plan and the County’s Community Health Improvement Plan.” said Chad Brown, Licking County Health Commissioner. “We are very thankful for our partnership with the County Commissioners to make this program a reality, and we will work hard to serve as many county residents as possible and to assist them with leading healthier lives.”
The Licking County Commissioners fully endorse the creation of the Community Navigator Program in collaboration with the Licking County Health Department. The allocation of Licking County funding from the national opioid settlement is an appropriate use of the funding in providing support and treatment for local residents affected by addiction issues.
For more information regarding the Community Navigator Program, please contact LCHD at navigator@lickingcohealth.org or 740-349-6535.