The physicians of the Massachusetts Medical Society commend the Worcester Board of Health and Dr. Mattie Castiel for their leadership in voting to authorize an overdose prevention center (OPC) pilot program, a proven public health tool that will save the lives of those impacted by opioid use disorder, as well as increase access to health care services and facilitate pathways for treatment and recovery. We know that vast majority of Massachusetts residents support OPCs as a public health measure and hope more communities follow Worcester’s lead. We commend Worcester in advancing this important harm reduction intervention that will save lives and we will continue our longstanding advocacy in support of OPCs to ensure they can become a reality in more communities across the Commonwealth.
-Barbara S. Spivak, MD, President, Massachusetts Medical Society
