Overdose Fatality Review Team

in partnership with the Douglas County Health Department

Coalition Rx and the Douglas County Health Department have come together to launch an Overdose Fatality Review (OFR) team in Omaha, Nebraska. This collaborative effort brings together key stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and public health officials, to analyze overdose cases and develop targeted prevention strategies. With overdose deaths occurring at an alarming rate—approximately one per week in Douglas County (Douglas County Vital Statistics data) —this initiative aims to address the crisis through data-driven solutions and community collaboration.

Goals of the OFR Team:

• Identify Trends & Risk Factors – Examine overdose cases to understand patterns, contributing factors, and gaps in prevention efforts.
• Enhance Coordination – Strengthen collaboration among public health agencies, treatment providers, and first responders to improve response efforts.
• Develop Targeted Interventions – Use findings to implement evidence-based strategies that address the root causes of substance misuse.
• Improve Access to Resources – Ensure individuals and families have better access to prevention, treatment, and recovery support services.
• Inform Policy & Advocacy – Provide data-driven insights to guide local policies, funding priorities, and community outreach initiatives.

By leveraging a multidisciplinary approach, the OFR team aims to reduce overdose fatalities and build a stronger, more resilient community in the fight against substance misuse.

The formation of this OFR team is a proactive response to alarming statistics in our community. Through meticulous case reviews and collaborative analysis, the team seeks to uncover patterns and risk factors contributing to these incidents. Insights gained will guide the development of tailored policies and programs aimed at addressing the root causes of substance misuse and enhancing support systems for those affected. This initiative underscores the community's commitment to leveraging collective expertise and resources to tackle the overdose epidemic head-on!

Join our WRAP Program! We’re thrilled to offer this empowering program to young adults and believe in its incredible benefits for managing stress and enhancing personal wellness. If you're interested, contact Carey Pomykata to learn more!

We are in need of:

EMPTY over-the-counter pill bottles and small individual prize items for kids in our programs. If you have items you'd like to give, just reach out to our staff, or donate financially above.

We appreciate you!

As a recent college graduate, Layne is passionate about empowering young people with the knowledge and strategies they need to make informed choices and resist substance use. She sees peer pressure as one of the biggest challenges youth face today—especially the influence of social media. She notes that social media often portrays substance use in a misleadingly positive and fun light, shaping young people’s perceptions dangerously. Through her work at Coalition Rx, she hopes to counter these narratives and empower youth with the truth.

Layne earned her degree in Criminology & Criminal Justice from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, aspiring to a career in criminal justice where she can serve her community. Having grown up in Omaha, she has a strong connection to the city and is excited to put her education to work in a meaningful way right here at home.

A fun fact about Layne—one of her favorite experiences at UNO was being part of the biomechanics research team, where she had the unique opportunity to assist in prosthetics development as a study participant!

Join us in welcoming Layne to the team!

As a small team with big goals, we need your support now more than ever. Getting involved is easier than you might think, and together, we can make a big difference! Here’s how:

1. Hit the follow button: We're on Instagram and Facebook, and we'd love to see you there! Social Media
2. Stay in the loop: Subscribe to our newsletter for all the latest updates.
3. Give what you can: Whether it’s board games, prizes, empty medicine bottles, or a donation, every bit makes a difference.
4. Join the fun: Volunteer with us! Reach out to Carey Pomykata at 402-871-5622

Let’s make a difference together!