County-Level Risk Analysis for Opioid Overdose and Resource Allocation in Maryland

Substance use disorder, especially relating to opioids, is a major concern in the United States that impacts 1 in 6 adults and costs US taxpayers about $3.73 trillion annually, which translates to roughly $11,000 per person in the U.S. today.

We analyzed public health policies, Maryland Emergency Service overdose data, and structural and environmental factors of each county in Maryland to devise more efficient and cost-effective recovery strategies for those with opioid use disorder, and we identified potential health service improvements such as additional mental health care services and more education regarding opioid and substance abuse.

Additionally, analyzing current flaws in the distribution of opioids for treatment of pain and opioid use disorder, we designed a secure pill box that streamlines the treatment process while preventing overuse and also created risk scores around the state for opioid overdoses to determine where to best employ pill boxes.

Interns: Enya Ma, Mahi Tejay

Mentor: Bruce Cottle (AOS/QKT)