Connecticut Coalition Success: Bristol Eliminating Substance Use Together (BEST) Coalition
Bristol, CT, has experienced a high number of overdose deaths - 42 in 2022. According to the Drug Overdose Deaths in Connecticut Data Dashboard maintained by the CT Department of Public Health, 74% of the 2022 overdose deaths were male, 81% were white, and a significant number involved cocaine with an opioid, often fentanyl.
The Bristol Eliminating Substance Use Together (BEST) coalition uses a combination of prevention strategies to encourage safe medication use, safe storage, and safe disposal of prescription drugs. BEST supports opioid misuse prevention and overdose prevention by:
Participating in the Mayor’s Opioid Task Force
Creating 15 lawn signs with quick facts and a QR code for more information and posting them in city parks
Creating 2 billboards (pictured here) – 1) emphasizing alternatives to pain management for student-athletes and parents and 2) encouraging parents to talk with their kids about opioids
Using social media to provide quick facts and resource information
Promoting safe medication disposal at the Bristol Police Department and two pharmacies (medication disposal boxes)
Collaborating regularly with the Bristol-Burlington Health District
Facilitating monthly naloxone training.
BEST prioritizes collaboration and partnership with community partners and coalitions in adjacent communities. BEST collaborated with Region 10 Wellness Coalition (Harwinton-Burlington) and the Bristol-Burlington Health District on mental health promotion during PRIDE month. BEST also partnered with Southington and Wolcott on a regional outreach initiative with retailers to prevent underage alcohol, tobacco, and vaping sales.
Contact Michael Tingley, BEST Coordinator, at MichaelTingley@bristolct.gov or visit https://best4bristol.com/ for more information.