Escambia County EMS Reaches Milestone in Opioid Recovery Program

CORE program helps 600 patients recover from opioid addiction in Pensacola area

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:37pm

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A translucent, X-ray-like image of an opioid pill bottle, its contents glowing faintly against a dark background, conceptually representing the hidden, internal impact of opioid addiction.Escambia County's innovative CORE program has helped hundreds of residents recover from the hidden, internal damage of opioid addiction.Pensacola Today

Escambia County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) has reached a significant milestone in its CORE opioid recovery program, helping 600 patients in the Pensacola area overcome opioid addiction through a comprehensive treatment approach.

Why it matters

The opioid epidemic has devastated communities across the United States, and Escambia County is no exception. The CORE program's success in helping hundreds of residents recover demonstrates the positive impact that proactive, community-based treatment initiatives can have in addressing this public health crisis.

The details

The CORE (Community Opioid Recovery Effort) program, launched by Escambia County EMS in 2020, provides a multi-faceted approach to opioid addiction recovery. It includes on-site assessment and treatment by EMS personnel, connection to long-term rehabilitation services, and follow-up support to help patients maintain sobriety.

  • The CORE program was launched by Escambia County EMS in 2020.
  • As of April 2026, the program has helped 600 patients recover from opioid addiction.

The players

Escambia County Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

The county's emergency medical services agency that operates the CORE opioid recovery program.

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What’s next

Escambia County EMS plans to continue expanding the CORE program to reach more individuals struggling with opioid addiction in the Pensacola area.

The takeaway

The CORE program's success demonstrates the importance of community-based, comprehensive approaches to addressing the opioid crisis. By providing immediate medical intervention, long-term treatment, and ongoing support, Escambia County EMS is making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by opioid addiction.