Certain demographic groups have a disproportionately high frequency of drug overdose deaths. Additionally, overdose frequency and SUD treatment characteristics vary by demographic group. A single model for overdose response and prevention will likely not achieve equitable outcomes and progress across demographic groups.

Communities of color are at increased risk of fatal overdose. Racial and ethnic minority residents experience differences in EMS treatment for opioid overdoses and SUD treatment.

Detailers should be aware that overdoses do not affect all demographic and socioeconomic groups in Michigan equally. For example, while the total overdose death rate decreased in Michigan in 2018, the overdose death rate among Black Michigan residents increased by 15 percent.

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, to reduce the burden of overdose morbidity and mortality in Michigan and particularly to reduce the disparities present among overdoses and SUD, prevention and treatment programs need to incorporate a health equity/health disparities lens into their decision-making and program planning. Academic detailers are well-positioned to introduce concerns with regard to health equity and inclusion.