The Sconi

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has introduced a new online tool designed to aid professionals involved in overdose response and prevention. The Wisconsin Suspected Overdose Alerts for Rapid Response (WiSOARR) system aims to provide timely data on suspected overdoses, enabling swift action to combat drug overdoses.

"WiSOARR gives our substance use partners a faster and clearer understanding of when and where suspected overdoses are occurring in their communities," stated Michelle Haese, DHS director of substance use initiatives. "This system is a step forward in our ongoing work to better understand and respond to the ever-evolving drug overdose epidemic with the right strategies at the right time."

The system collects data from ambulance runs and emergency department visits, allowing users to track local trends, set alerts based on community-specific thresholds, and access essential resources for spike response. While WiSOARR is not available to the public, anonymous data on confirmed drug overdoses remains accessible via the DHS website.

The launch comes as reports indicate a decline in suspected overdose deaths nationwide for the first time since 2018. Alongside WiSOARR, DHS efforts include public education on substance use discussions, free naloxone distribution, fentanyl test strips, harm reduction programs, additional treatment supports like mobile clinics, and connecting overdose survivors with recovery support individuals.

For more information about WiSOARR or media inquiries, visit the DHS website or contact DHSMedia@dhs.wisconsin.gov.