Ohio SUD Deflection Data Collection & Definitions Guidance

The Ohio Deflection Association, in partnership with the Northeast Ohio Medical University's Criminal Justice Coordinating Center of Excellence’s (CJCCOE) Substance Use Deflection Initiative, has released a new Deflection Data Collection and Definitions Guide.

“Deflection” aims to connect individuals experiencing addiction with treatment and recovery according to the individual’s needs and away from traditional avenues, such as emergency departments or the criminal justice system.

This guide will help deflection teams across Ohio operate under the same standardized definitions; providing concrete definitions and delivery criteria for standard deflection services, such as:

• Outreach
• Referrals
• Treatment Connection
• Follow-Up
• Point of Care Follow-Up

By standardizing terminology, it will ensure accurate data collection statewide and strengthen the measurement of outcomes, highlighting the impact of innovative deflection efforts in communities across Ohio.

Read the full guide here.