After First 1000 Calls, Checking In On Illinois’ New Opioid Helpline

Life expectancy in the U.S. has fallen for the second straight year, in part because of the surge of overdoses on opioids, such as oxycodone.
Life expectancy in the U.S. has fallen for the second straight year, in part because of the surge of overdoses on opioids, such as oxycodone. John Moore/Getty Images
Life expectancy in the U.S. has fallen for the second straight year, in part because of the surge of overdoses on opioids, such as oxycodone.
Life expectancy in the U.S. has fallen for the second straight year, in part because of the surge of overdoses on opioids, such as oxycodone. John Moore/Getty Images

After First 1000 Calls, Checking In On Illinois’ New Opioid Helpline

WBEZ brings you fact-based news and information. Sign up for our newsletters to stay up to date on the stories that matter.

In early December, the State of Illinois’ Department of Human Services went live with a hotline to help those addicted to opioids get the help they need. The hotline runs 24-7, and it’s staffed with knowledgeable operators that can put callers directly in touch with specific help they need, including walking them through options based on their insurance.

Two months and 1000 calls in, we see where they’re going next in their quest to get folks clean.

GUEST:

Maria Bruni, Department of Human Services