Facing a growing drug crisis fueled by fentanyl and methamphetamine, the mayor convened a Drug Crisis Task Force to identify community-rooted solutions. One of the task force’s most transformative recommendations was the creation of a mobile street medicine unit, leading to the launch of the Emergency Mobile Opioid Team (EMOTE).

The task force produced 15 actionable recommendations. One of its most transformative ideas was launching a mobile street medicine unit. EMOTE is a low-barrier, street-level treatment program designed for individuals who cannot or choose not to engage with traditional office-based care. It delivers essential medical services—such as medication-assisted treatment, counseling, and peer support—directly to residents in their environment, fostering trust and stability in moments of crisis. By meeting residents on their terms, EMOTE bridges the gap between addiction and access to care, addressing the drug crisis as both a public health and human issue.

Impact or how it will be measured:

Since EMOTE launched in July 2024 in partnership with Conquer Clinics, the team has engaged in over 1,000 meaningful contacts with Everett residents. The program tracks a range of key performance indicators, including:

  • Client demographics

  • Number of detox placements and inpatient rehab referrals

  • Peer support services and outreach engagement

  • Referrals to Conquer’s outpatient services

  • Transportation assistance

  • Narcan distribution

  • Substance Use Disorder assessments completed

In its second year, EMOTE plans to better evaluate ER diversions linked to its interventions and explore systems for tracking aftercare and long-term follow-up. While prevention is difficult to quantify, the program uses data to measure its impact on individuals and the broader public health and safety infrastructure.

The current drug landscape—especially fentanyl and meth—requires innovative approaches. Traditional systems have struggled to adapt, and programs like EMOTE provide a model that relieves pressure on emergency services, reduces unnecessary hospital visits, and builds trust with historically underserved populations. This scalable approach offers a framework that other cities nationwide could adopt to address a national crisis.