Substance use and mental health disorders are two major public health issues in Mason County, with overdoses and other related issues impacting not only individuals but also families, loved ones and entire communities. North Mason Regional Fire Authority, Mason County Public Health and additional community stakeholders have worked together to create an innovative Quick Response Team (QRT) Program with the purpose of responding to the unique needs of our Mason County Communities in a timely and coordinated manner. The initial proposal was funded by a two-year Department of Justice Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Program (COAP) award, bringing additional financial and technical assistance to Mason County, with the goal of creating a sustainable program that will continue to serve the community beyond the initial award period.
The QRT Program is a collaboration between Mason County EMS personnel and Peninsula Community Health Services (PCHS), a local federally-qualified health center that provides integrated behavioral health and substance use treatment in a primary care setting. The QRT Program’s mission is to provide an additional layer of navigation and support to all those impacted by the opioid crisis, with the aim of decreasing overdoses and overdose deaths through a coordinated countywide response – including those individuals who were previously unlikely to connect with treatment and services. To accomplish these goals, the QRT Team was created to meet individuals and their loved ones where they are at – providing hope, recovery and support. This Team is staffed by EMS personnel, Substance Use Disorder Professionals, Licensed Mental Health Providers and Peer Support staff.
While the QRT Program will target opioid-related overdoses, the project will also assist any Mason County residents impacted by substance use and mental health issues – offering education, prevention and access to services. The QRT Team will continue to engage with individuals and coordinate treatment and recovery services, including accessing a full set of clinic-based primary care, dental and integrated behavioral health services offered by PCHS and other community partners.
Ultimately, the QRT Program is a community project intended to serve our neighbors and communities by drawing upon the many resources Mason County has to offer. Hours of operations are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. If you are needing after hours service please contact PCHS at (360) 377-3776 or call your local fire station for non-emergency 360-426-5523. For all medical emergency please call 911.
To activate the QRT Team, please call 360-801-2020 or follow the link below: