Description

In response to findings in MHA’s 2019 Opioid/Substance Use Needs Assessment, MHA provides a variety of prevention-based services that are all free to the community.

Using evidence-based education materials developed by the National Institute of Health, Drug Enforcement Agency and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (among other resources), MHA’s Community Health Workers develop prevention curriculum to educate local youth about the effects of opioid and substance use on the body, brain and life. The curriculum is adjusted annually to fit the requests of local school administration and youth.

To avoid accidental ingestion of prescription pills, MHA offers free prescription lock bags to the community. Lock bags are secure, with a unique lock for each bag that ensures prescription medications cannot be accessed by others. Lock bags are distributed during outreach events by MHA and through our partner organizations (Redwood Coast Medical Services, Arena Pharmacy and Coastal Seniors). In addition, MHA provides free pill organizers so that individuals with pain medication prescriptions can easily track medication intake to avoid accidental overdose.

At least twice per year, MHA partners with the Mendocino County or Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office to host Rx Take-Back events. The events are normally held in conjunction with another community event and the locations are rotated throughout the MHA Service Area. The purpose of these events is to collect unused or expired prescription medications to reduce theft and for proper disposal.

Addiction Treatment Options

MHA partners with Redwood Coast Medical Services (RCMS) and Bright Heart Health to expand access to out-patient treatment options for individuals struggling with opioid and substance addiction. MHA provides Care Coordination for individuals that are receiving treatment from our partners. RCMS provides appointments and care for out-patient treatment for individuals who are experiencing opioid dependency. Bright Heart Health provides telemedicine on a virtual platform for a wide range of addictions, from alcohol and methamphetamines, to prescription pain medication and other opioids. Bright Heart Health services can be accessed by any individual in the comfort of their own home. MHA acts as an Access Point for individuals who do not have reliable internet access or access to a device that allows for face-to-face virtual appointments. To learn more about MHA’s Access Point option, call (707) 412-3176 x102.

Medication Take-Back Event

Alternative Pain Management Resource Guide

This resource guide is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

English Version

Spanish Version

This website and MHA’s programs are supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award through the Rural Health Network Development Program totaling $898,645 and through the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program totaling $1 million, over a 3-year period, with 80% funded by HRSA/HHS and 20% percentage funded by non-government source(s), such as the Arlene & Michael Rosen Foundation, Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, the Community Foundation of Mendocino County and tax-deductible contributions from community members. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, HRSA/HHS or the U.S. Government.