SAN FRANCISCO, CA — HealthRIGHT 360, a longstanding provider of substance use disorder treatment for low-income residents, is encouraged by the recent reduction in overdose deaths in San Francisco but stresses that much more remains to be done. HealthRIGHT 360 recognizes that this progress reflects the collective efforts of many – the San Francisco Department of Public Health, community-based organizations, street outreach teams, advocates, researchers, peers, people with lived experience, and state and federal partners who have provided critical funding. Together, we are making strides toward a healthier community; however, the ongoing overdose crisis requires continued collaboration and innovation across all sectors to ensure lasting change.
“We are encouraged by the reduction in overdose deaths,” said Dr. Vitka Eisen, President and CEO of HealthRIGHT 360. “Every life saved is a testament to our community and the commitment of those working on the frontlines. This progress motivates us to keep innovating, persevering, and collaborating to expand voluntary, evidence-based services that meet people where they are. Through our expanded intake renovations, funded by Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and support of our federal representatives, and through strengthening our state and local partnerships, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide care and support for individuals across the spectrum of drug use.”
Since 1967, HealthRIGHT 360 has been at the forefront of substance use disorder treatment, consistently adapting to meet the changing needs of the community. Recently, the organization has increased access capacity, particularly through the renovation of its Integrated Care Center, expanding intake and reducing wait times to help more people access life-saving services.
“We are deeply grateful for the support we’ve received to address an evolving substance use landscape,” continued Dr. Eisen. “The advent of fentanyl and other drugs like nitazines and xylazine has necessitated changes in treatment strategies and safety protocols, and contributions from federal and local partners have made it possible for us to respond quickly to an increasingly dangerous drug supply.”
HealthRIGHT 360 has also made strides in workforce development, addressing the shortage of qualified treatment providers through recruitment and salary increases. These efforts have strengthened staffing and expanded care capacity across programs.
While the reduction in overdose deaths is positive, HealthRIGHT 360 recognizes that much more remains to be done. Public health interventions addressing housing, hunger, and other social determinants of health are crucial to tackling systemic issues contributing to substance use and overdose deaths.
Persistent disparities in overdose deaths, particularly among Black and Indigenous communities, remain a continued concern. These disparities are often exacerbated by the criminalization of poverty and failed tactics of the War on Drugs. HealthRIGHT 360 is committed to health equity and addressing these inequities through supporting targeted services and advocating for policies that reduce stigma and barriers to care. We will continue to push for a shift in approach – one that prioritizes public health over punishment and offers long-term recovery for those affected by substance use disorders.
About HealthRIGHT 360:
HealthRIGHT 360 is a non-profit provider of substance use disorder treatment, mental health services, and primary care to over 45,000 Californians annually. HealthRIGHT 360 provides care that is compassionate, non-judgmental, and evidence-based. We provide services, regardless of one’s ability to pay; inspired by our belief that healthcare is a right, not a privilege. Learn more about HealthRIGHT 360 and our programs at https://www.healthright360.org/.
