In 2016, Virginia took a bold and necessary step by declaring the opioid epidemic a public health emergency. That declaration set off a chain of actions to address rising overdose rates, reduce harm, and expand access to treatment. With recognition from the Virginia Board of Pharmacy, the Department of Behavioral Health and Development Services, and the Department of Health Professions, a number of changes have been enacted in order to better accommodate the public and those in need. Today, the fight continues across communities, healthcare systems, and recovery centers working toward one goal: saving lives.
A Closer Look at What Virginia Has Done
The state has implemented a number of measures designed to make both emergency care and long-term treatment more accessible.
Naloxone Access Made Easier
Naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication, is now more widely available in Virginia than ever before. Thanks to a statewide standing order, individuals can obtain naloxone from most pharmacies in the state without getting a prescription from a doctor, or reaching out to local health departments and participating Community Services Boards.
Naloxone is also an essential part of Suboxone treatment, helping ensure that medications designed for recovery are used safely and responsibly.
Free Overdose Response Training: REVIVE!
Virginia launched a state-supported training initiative, REVIVE!, to teach residents how to recognize and respond to opioid overdoses. In as little as 10–30 minutes, participants can learn to administer naloxone and take life-saving steps in critical moments.
This kind of education empowers individuals and families—not just professionals—and creates more resilient communities.
Expanding Treatment Through Medicaid and Provider Access
The opioid crisis doesn’t discriminate—but access to treatment hasn’t always been equal. Virginia has worked to close that gap by:
- Ensuring Medicaid covers a wide range of treatment services
- Increasing the number of healthcare providers certified to offer medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Funding telehealth and outpatient options to support daily life and responsibilities
These efforts help make it easier for people to seek help without disrupting work, school, or caregiving roles.
Supporting Long-Term Recovery with Community Investment
With help from federal grants like the State Opioid Response (SOR) Grant, Virginia has been able to expand several crucial programs, including:
- Collegiate recovery programs that support young adults
- MAT access in correctional facilities and jails
- Prescription drug drop boxes for safe medication disposal
- Community coalition partnerships that promote prevention and education at the local level
Learn more about how community-based recovery can help
Why It Still Matters: The Crisis Isn’t Over
The opioid crisis in Virginia remains a pressing issue, with overdose deaths now outpacing those caused by motor vehicle accidents. Despite meaningful progress, hundreds of lives are still lost each year. Combating this crisis requires more than policy—it calls for awareness, education, and the collective efforts of families, communities, healthcare providers, and support networks. By staying informed and engaged, we can work together to reduce harm, support recovery, and save lives.
What You Can Do (or Where to Start)
If you or someone you care about has been impacted by opioid use, know that there is no shame in seeking help—and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re exploring options like Suboxone, considering counseling, or simply ready to talk, support is available. Outpatient programs can offer the flexibility to continue daily responsibilities while receiving comprehensive care. Recovery is always possible, and the first step can start today.
You don’t have to walk this path alone.
