A primary topic at the meeting was the expansion of Narcan availability in Chatham. Naloxone (Narcan) boxes have been installed at various public sites, including town buildings, the Fish Pier, and the community center, with plans for additional installations. These boxes, stocked by the Aid Support Group of Cape Cod, are intended to provide free access to Narcan for personal use or to support individuals at risk. The initiative aims to destigmatize substance use by making the life-saving drug readily available, with local personnel trained in its administration. The board also discussed funding from pharmaceutical companies, totaling over $300,000 over 15 years, to support these initiatives. Acknowledging the importance of this program, a member of the board recounted past limitations in student resources, underscoring the dangers of counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl, which pose a significant overdose risk.

Another focus was the PASS Program, which supports students facing suspension or requiring additional help due to substance use and mental health challenges. Since its inception in May 2022, the program has served 232 students, with a notable percentage facing such issues. The program offers a five-day intervention as an alternative to a traditional suspension, thereby preventing it from appearing on students’ records. The program collaborates with school staff and offers transportation through DART bus passes. A Middle School PASS Program was launched recently, aiming to enroll about 75 students, highlighting the increasing need for mental health resources among younger students.

The meeting also featured a presentation on the Alternative Peer Group (APG) program, which serves youth aged 13 to 17 with a history of substance use. Initiated in 2018, this program is free and operates with clinical oversight from the Duffy Health Center. It reports an 88% success rate in achieving recovery goals among participants. The board emphasized the importance of ensuring students are not only identified but also referred to ongoing support, creating a continuum of care.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) data on Narcan administrations were presented, showing a fluctuating trend from 2019 to 2024. Despite a decrease in recent administrations, the potency of drugs has increased, necessitating continued vigilance. The EMS representative explained that Narcan’s effects are temporary, urging recipients to seek further medical assistance. The board addressed concerns about the stigma surrounding substance use, which may hinder individuals from disclosing the drugs they have taken.

In addition to substance use discussions, the board announced upcoming public health initiatives, including a drive-thru flu and COVID clinic scheduled for early October, offering both standard and high-strength vaccines. Future meetings will address community health survey reports and forums on community services.