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Real-Time Reporting System Maps Drug Overdoses

NCJ Number
250924
Author(s)
Date Published
May 2017
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article profiles the features and benefits of a free online drug overdose reporting system that enables law enforcement and other first responders to quickly report and map the location of known and suspected overdose incidents and share information across jurisdictions.
Abstract
This overdose reporting system, called the Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program (ODMAP), was developed by the Washington/Baltimore High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), with support from the Office of National Drug Control Policy. ODMAP sends geocoded event information to a secure server, where it is mapped and made available for viewing by participating agencies. Users are able to sort events by date, time, and location in identifying drug overdose spikes. This service can be used on a smart phone, iPad, mobile terminal in a patrol car, or by a fire or paramedic unit. Berkeley County, West Virginia, is one of the counties that participated in the pilot phase and is using the technology. Kevin Knowles, community recovery services coordinator for the county, reported he is pleased with how rapidly information can be gleaned through the system. Previously, data for the prior month would not be available until 2 weeks into the current month. ODMAP shows spikes in overdoses within 24 hours. The initial level of interest in ODMAP has been high; HIDTA has received numerous inquiries from agencies in the United States and Canada.

Date Published: May 1, 2017