SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - As Californians gather this Thanksgiving, many patients are giving thanks for a life-changing program that has helped them overcome the devastation of opioid addiction. Dignity Health’s commitment to sustaining its Substance Use Navigators across its emergency departments (EDs) is providing crucial support for those battling addiction, ensuring they are not only treated in crisis but also connected to long-term recovery resources. 

In 2022, more than 7,285 Californians lost their lives to opioid overdoses, including over 6,473 deaths attributed to fentanyl alone. Fentanyl-related deaths doubled over the past year, and California's emergency rooms saw over 21,000 visits related to opioid overdoses, according to the California Overdose Surveillance Dashboard. 

For many, Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on what they’re grateful for—and for those who have been touched by the opioid epidemic, the support of Dignity Health’s Navigators is a reason to be thankful. 

Since 2019, Dignity Health’s Substance Use Navigator program has helped more than 36,600 patients access vital treatment for substance use disorder. With 29 Navigators working across the state, they provide immediate intervention and connect patients to treatment options, community resources, and long-term recovery support. 

“Opioid overdose deaths are preventable, and we are committed to being part of the solution,” shares Julie Sprengel, President of CommonSpirit Health’s California Region. “By establishing the role of our Navigators in our emergency rooms, we ensure that patients in crisis not only receive the immediate care they need but also have continuous support throughout their recovery journey. This Thanksgiving, we are especially grateful for the opportunity to help so many people regain their lives.” 

Dignity Health is the largest health system in California addressing the opioid crisis head-on, with 19 hospitals named to the Opioid Honor Roll for their efforts to combat the epidemic. These hospitals continue to provide access to life-saving resources and treatment for substance use disorders, a critical step in saving lives and reducing the impact of the opioid crisis on communities across the state. 

"Having the Navigator by my side made all the difference," said a patient who received care at a Dignity Health hospital. "They didn’t just help me through the crisis; they helped me see a path

forward, and connected me to the right resources. Without their support, I wouldn’t have known where to turn.” 

As part of its ongoing efforts to fight the opioid crisis, Dignity Health is also committed to making Narcan, the opioid overdose reversal medication, available for free at most pharmacies across California. We are also training numerous clinicians and staff members about anti-stigma literacy as addiction is a medical condition not a moral failing, which is a stereotype that can inhibit patients from seeking care. “There’s no greater kindness than being non-judgmental of patients impacted by substance use disorders,” said Kathy Krebs-Dean, CommonSpirit's Anti-Stigma Initiative leader. 

This Thanksgiving, Dignity Health is thankful for the opportunity to help patients heal, recover, and rebuild their lives—one step at a time. 

About Dignity Health 

Dignity Health, part of CommonSpirit Health, is one of the largest health systems in California, providing comprehensive care through its network of hospitals and outpatient facilities. Dignity Health is committed to improving the health and well-being of communities, focusing on delivering compassionate, quality care to all individuals, regardless of their circumstances. 

For more information about Dignity Health’s opioid treatment programs, visit www.dignityhealth.org.