Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced new data showing a decrease in overdose deaths in Ohio for the second year in a row.

What You Need To Know

  • There was a 9% decline in confirmed overdose deaths in the state, according to the 2023 Ohio Unintentional Drug Overdose Report by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH)

  • In 2023, Ohio saw 4,452 drug overdose deaths, 463 fewer than 2022
  • The data shows Ohio has outperformed the national average

There was a 9% decline in confirmed overdose deaths in the state according to the 2023 Ohio Unintentional Drug Overdose Report by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH).

 

In 2023, Ohio saw 4,452 drug overdose deaths, 463 fewer than 2022. The report shows a continued trend into this year, with a 24% decrease in overdose deaths from the second to the fourth quarter of 2023.

“This new data shows that Ohio is on the right track, and the numbers have been getting more encouraging each of the past few years,” DeWine said in a press release. “But we also recognize that our work is far from complete, that every overdose death remains a tragedy. These results further sharpen our resolve to continue our fight to save more lives.”

According to a press release from DeWine’s office, Ohio has adopted a government-wide approach to address the drug epidemic with a focus on intervention, treatment and enforcement.

His office collaborated with ODH, the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS), the Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS) and other partners to develop state programs and resources to save more lives and support recovery from addiction.

 

“Through initiatives like expanded naloxone distribution, harm reduction strategies, and comprehensive treatment and mental health services, we are saving lives and creating pathways to recovery,” said Aimee Shadwick, director of RecoveryOhio, in the release. “While we recognize this progress, we remain committed to continuing our work so that every Ohioan struggling with addiction has access to the support they need to live a healthier, safer life.”

 

The data shows Ohio has outperformed the national average. In 2023, Ohio saw a 9% drop in overdose deaths, outperforming the nationwide 2% decrease. Also, in 2022, Ohio’s 5% decrease in overdose deaths, less than the 1% increase seen nationwide.

Access to the full 2023 Ohio Unintentional Drug Overdose Report.

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