The Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) oversees the County’s national opioid settlement funds, ensuring they are used in alignment with the approved purposes outlined in the One Arizona Distribution of Opioid Settlement Funds Agreement. This funding provides an opportunity to invest in evidence-based strategies to combat the opioid crisis and prevent future harm. These efforts focus on communities impacted by harms from opioids and other substances, as outlined in the Maricopa County Substance Use Prevention & Response Strategic Plan for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024-2028 (Strategic Plan). This funding opportunity, supported by the One Arizona Agreement, aims to expand the adoption and impact of an Opioid Business Toolkit that assists businesses in developing and implementing workplace policies addressing opioid use disorder (OUD). Businesses play a vital role in the community, as the effects of opioid misuse extend beyond individual employees to their families and the broader workforce. Workplace policies that reduce stigma, support employees, and connect individuals to care contribute to healthier, more resilient communities.
MCDPH is intending to award up to $350,000 to a single contractor who shall be responsible for expanding the reach of a customizable Opioid Business Toolkit that is tailored to the needs of local businesses. The toolkit should be adaptable to different industries, include evidence-based resources, and integrate AI-driven support where applicable to facilitate implementation. The contractor will provide technical assistance to businesses, ensuring they can effectively use the toolkit to establish and enhance workplace opioid policies.
Key priorities for this initiative include:
- Increasing business adoption of opioid policies and best practices
- Providing education and technical assistance to employers
- Enhancing workplace support for employees affected by opioid use disorder
- Strengthening connections between businesses and community-based opioid response resources
- Reducing stigma surrounding opioid use and treatment in workplace settings
Through this initiative, MCDPH seeks to foster employer engagement in the opioid response, working with businesses from all regions of Maricopa County, leveraging workplaces as essential partners in prevention, intervention, and support. The selected contractor will facilitate on-site outreach, training, and resource dissemination across Maricopa County to maximize the impact of this initiative. The initial contract period shall begin July 1, 2025, and run through June 30, 2026.
