Tompkins County Data Shows Decrease in Unintentional Fatal Overdoses
Published on August 27, 2025
(ITHACA, NY, August 26, 2025) – Tompkins County Whole Health (TCWH) is reporting a decrease in fatal drug overdoses for the first six months of 2025. From January through June 2025, Tompkins County Medical Examiner reported three (3) unintentional fatal overdoses, representing a 77% decrease compared to the same period in 2024. This downward trend was reported earlier in the spring by NYS and supported by national data. The NYS Quarterly Opioid Report for Tompkins County shows a decrease in opioid overdose deaths during the last quarter of 2024. This decrease is also evident in NYS, with unintentional overdose deaths down 32% for all drugs and 38% for opioids in New York State from 2024 to 2025. The national data shows a decrease of 27% in drug overdose deaths across the country in 2024.
“Unintentional Fatal Overdose” refers to the number of deaths by overdose which were ruled accidental, often as a result of unintended circumstances of the drug used, such as tainted drugs and level of tolerance. [Note: The 3 unintentional fatal overdoses will be noted in the Demographic Profile when annual data is available to input in spring 2026.]
A multi-faceted approach using harm reduction strategies and treatment is taken to prevent fatal overdose, and lead to recovery. Harm reduction strategies are evidence-based methods which lessen the negative social and/or physical consequences associated with various human behaviors. For example, seatbelts are considered a “harm reduction strategy,” as seatbelt use helps to decrease the harm caused by automobile accidents.
Harm reduction strategies for substance use include naloxone distribution and education, drug testing, safety planning (such as never using alone), and peer support. Harm reduction strategies are considered an important factor in decreasing fatal overdose along with treatment interventions (medication and therapy) and recovery-oriented services.
Healthcare providers, education institutions, community-based organizations and other programs have worked diligently to increase access to naloxone (an overdose reversal method) and provide community-wide training opportunities. In Tompkins County, 5,700 naloxone (Narcan) kits were distributed, and over 7,000 people were trained in its use during 2024. Free Narcan and self-use drug testing supplies are available at a variety of community locations and for ordering online.
The past 5 years have seen an increase in education and awareness about the contamination of street drugs with fentanyl or xylazine. STAP, Inc., became a part of the NYS Community Drug Checking pilot in 2023, to help educate people who use drugs about the products they are using. Drugs can be checked at no cost, anonymously, at the STAP office at 314 W. State St., downtown Ithaca. This program helps to reduce the risks associated with substance use and allows the user to make more informed decisions. The drug checking program also monitors trends in drug supply and notes any changes in how people are using drugs, which allows for adaptability in providing appropriate harm reduction methods.
Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD), also known as Medication Assisted Therapy (MAT), is available in Tompkins County to provide support for those in recovery. MOUD incorporates therapeutic services with the use of medication that can reduce dependency on substances. These medications, such as buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone help normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and restore normal body functions without the harmful effects of the substances. Locally, MOUD options can be discussed and prescribed by providers at Tompkins County Whole Health’s Mental Health Clinic, REACH Medical, Cayuga Addiction Recovery Services (CARS), and at some practitioner offices.
NYS’s Opioid Settlement Funds have contributed to our local investment and commitment to creating a continuum of prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery services. Over $1.3 million in settlement funds were distributed to a variety of programs and agencies to increase or enhance harm reduction services like those listed above. These enhanced services have contributed to increased education and awareness of the opioid crisis, have made Narcan and drug testing strips widely available, and have improved the trust and relationship between the drug user community and prevention partners. Collaboration among local providers and across counties, particularly with Cortland County and the Rural Health Institute, has further improved local service provision.
TCWH Commissioner Jennie Sutcliffe stated, “One step we can all take to help save lives from drug overdose is to be trained in the use of naloxone (i.e. Narcan), an opioid overdose reversal spray. Just as we learn CPR or the Heimlich maneuver, carrying Narcan and being trained in its use is another way we can be prepared to respond in an emergency situation to save someone’s life.”
Sutcliffe continued, “While we are thrilled to see this decrease in unintentional fatal overdoses, we must not become complacent; we know there is still work to be done to get that number down to zero lives lost. TCWH remains committed to analyzing the disparities of who continues to be impacted by overdose, to identify gaps in services and work collaboratively across sectors to achieve this goal.”
CEO of REACH Medical, Dr. Justine Waldman stated, “The national and local decreases in unintentional
fatal overdoses is encouraging – this demonstrates that funding for addiction treatment and harm
reduction strategies is working and needs to continue. It is important to remember that there are populations across the state who are disproportionately affected by this overdose crisis and for whom the fatal overdose rates are decreasing but not at the same rate as for other populations. The long-term commitment and dedication of our service providers and prevention partners in the community have established an infrastructure for an effective system of care to best support people with addiction. The reopening of the crisis stabilization center will be another important factor in our local efforts, and we look forward to seeing that come to fruition next year.”
Rural Health Institute Project Director Sara Watrous stated, “I have been working in overdose prevention in Cortland County for over 5 years and have been very excited to join forces with Tompkins County in supporting their efforts. With many services providers already doing cross-county work, improving those connections and collaboration opportunities is of huge benefit to both the services providers and the community at large. Drug use is not confined within county lines, so neither should prevention efforts. I look forward to continued partnership as we work together to address the opioid crisis.”
Annually, International Overdose Awareness Day falls on August 31st, a day to remember lives lost and pledge anew to prevent additional overdoses. If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction, or whose loved ones are struggling, find support by calling the state’s toll-free, 24-hour, 7-day-a-week HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or by texting HOPENY (Short Code 467369).
For steps on how to reduce the risk of opioid overdose and information about drug testing, visit: https://www.tompkinscountyny.gov/health/opioids#section-4
For resources and free supply of Naloxone and fentanyl or xylazine testing strips, visit: https://tompkinscountyny.gov/health/opioids#usingandtreatment
For local substance use treatment options and mental health services and resources, visit: https://tompkinscountyny.gov/health/mhresources
Tompkins County Whole Health: envisioning a future where every person in Tompkins County can achieve wellness. Find us online at: https://www.tompkinscountyny.gov/health and follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X. Sign up to receive Whole Health updates or other county announcements via email or text.
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