NYC Health Department's Relay Program Expands to Brooklyn, Showing Promising Decline in Overdose Deaths

"The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene announced the expansion of its peer-led overdose prevention program, Relay, to a 16th location at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center. Data indicate a declining trend in overdose deaths, with 441 confirmed cases reported in the early months of 2025-the lowest since 2020. This follows a decrease from 3,056 deaths in 2023 to 2,192 in 2024, according to the City of New York."

"Relay operates on a peer-to-peer model in which individuals who experience a nonfatal opioid overdose are connected with a Wellness Advocate within an hour of arriving at the emergency department. These advocates, drawing on their own lived experience, provide immediate support and continue to assist patients for 90 days following discharge. Since the program began, advocates have distributed over 10,000 naloxone kits, delivered nearly 15,000 risk reduction education sessions, and made more than 6,000 referrals to other service providers."

"In 2024 alone, Relay served 1,768 patients, with 94% accepting services while still in the emergency department. Wyckoff Heights Medical Center President and CEO, Vali Gache, highlighted the significance of the Relay program and expressed appreciation for the partnership with the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Alan D. noted in an interview the program's ability to provide both hope and essential resources to individuals in need."

Relay expanded to a 16th hospital location at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center amid a reported decline in overdose deaths, with 441 confirmed cases in early 2025, the lowest since 2020. Overdose deaths fell from 3,056 in 2023 to 2,192 in 2024. Relay connects people who experience nonfatal opioid overdoses with Wellness Advocates within an hour of emergency-department arrival, with advocates providing support and follow-up for 90 days. Since inception advocates distributed over 10,000 naloxone kits, delivered nearly 15,000 risk-reduction sessions, made more than 6,000 referrals, and served 1,768 patients in 2024 with 94% accepting services in the ED. City leaders and hospital officials expressed support and commitment to funding evidence-based prevention efforts.

Read at Hoodline