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Overdose Fatality Review Team (OFRT)

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The Atlantic County Overdose Fatality Review Team (OFRT) is a multidisciplinary team dedicated to reviewing overdose fatalities to identify environmental factors, service gaps, and systemic issues that may have contributed to deaths related to substance use disorders. Through a comprehensive review process, the OFRT examines individual overdose cases to better understand the circumstances surrounding these tragedies and identify opportunities for prevention.

Using information gathered during the review process, the Atlantic County OFRT develops and supports innovative, community-specific strategies, services, and policy recommendations aimed at preventing future overdose deaths. The team also promotes stronger collaboration, communication, and coordination among agencies and organizations involved in overdose prevention and response efforts throughout Atlantic County.

The Atlantic County OFRT includes, but is not limited to, representatives from local health departments, medical examiner offices, behavioral health agencies, prosecutors’ offices, law enforcement agencies, first responders, substance use treatment providers, emergency department personnel, local advisory committees on alcohol and substance use disorders, harm reduction specialists, and other community leaders committed to overdose prevention.

The OFRT seeks to achieve the following goals:

  • Develop a deeper understanding of the circumstances surrounding fatal drug overdoses.
  • Identify missed opportunities for intervention, prevention, and systems improvement.
  • Strengthen partnerships and collaboration among local stakeholders involved in overdose prevention efforts.
  • Recommend policies, programs, and system changes that better support individuals at risk of overdose.
  • Inform local and statewide overdose and opioid misuse prevention strategies.

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) continually evaluates Overdose Fatality Review Teams and supports the implementation of evidence-based best practices and standards.

Funding for this program is made possible through a grant provided by the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH).

For more information about the Atlantic County OFRT, please contact Addiction Services Director, Brian J. Wilson at Wilson_Brian@aclink.org