DRONE CLINIC BUSINESS PROPOSAL MITIGATING DRUG ABUSE IN

PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES.

1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

DRONE Clinic presents an innovative solution to mitigate the alarming drug abuse
crisis among teenagers and adults in Philadelphia, United States. By establishing a
state-of-the-art facility and implementing a comprehensive, evidence-based
approach, DRONE Clinic aims to provide accessible, effective, and compassionate
care to those struggling with substance use disorders. Our multidisciplinary team of
experienced professionals will offer a range of services, including medical treatment,
behavioural therapy, and long-term support, tailored to the unique needs of each
individual. With a focus on community outreach, education, and collaboration with
local stakeholders, DRONE Clinic is poised to make a significant impact on the lives
of those affected by drug abuse in Philadelphia. The clinic anticipates start-up
expenditures of 75 million dollars, operational and development expenses of 25
million dollars, and a monthly income estimate of 1 million dollars. The estimated
timeframe for the establishment of the clinic is 24 months.

2.0 ORGANISATION OVERVIEW

DRONE Clinic is a pioneering substance abuse treatment center dedicated to

combating the drug abuse epidemic in Philadelphia, United States. Our organization
is committed to providing comprehensive, evidence-based care to teenagers and
adults struggling with addiction while promoting prevention, education, and
community outreach.

2.1 Vision

To create a society free from the devastating consequences of drug abuse, where
individuals can lead healthy, productive lives.

2.2 Mission

To provide accessible, effective, and compassionate care to those affected by

substance use disorders, empowering them to overcome addiction and achieve
lasting recovery.

2.3 Goal

To significantly reduce the prevalence of drug abuse among teenagers and adults in
Philadelphia, improve the overall health and well-being of our community, and serve
as a model for effective substance abuse treatment nationwide.
2.4 Strategy

In our mission to combat drug abuse in Philadelphia, the DRONE Clinic will employ a
comprehensive approach. Our cutting-edge treatment facility, staffed by skilled
professionals, will provide evidence-based care, including medical treatment and
behavioural therapy. We’ll engage at-risk populations through targeted outreach,
raise awareness, and collaborate with local stakeholders. Funding will come from
private investments, grants, and insurance partnerships, ensuring our sustained
impact on society.

3.0 BURDEN OF THE PUBLIC HEALTH PROBLEM AND OVERARCHING

POLICIES

3.1 The Burden Of Drug Abuse

Drug abuse has become a severe public health crisis in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
placing a significant burden on the city's healthcare system, social services, and the
well-being of its residents. In 2020, Philadelphia witnessed 1,214 unintentional drug
overdose deaths, representing a 9% increase from 2018 and a 6% increase from
2019 (Bettigole, 2020). Opioids are the primary culprits, detected in 86% of overdose
fatalities. Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, is the main driver of these deaths
(Bettigole, 2020; Gulkis, 2022).

Fentanyl proliferation, which is fentanyl often mixed with other drugs, has become
alarmingly prevalent. It was involved in 81% of all drug overdose deaths in 2020
(Bettigole, 2020). Several factors contribute to the high rates of drug abuse in
Philadelphia, including poverty, lack of access to health care, and the
overprescription of opioids (Dasgupta et al., 2018). Socioeconomic disparities play a
significant role, as individuals living in disadvantaged neighbourhoods are more likely
to experience substance use disorders and face barriers to treatment (Singhal et al.,
2016).

The public health implications of drug abuse in Philadelphia are far-reaching.

Substance use disorders are associated with an increased risk of overdose deaths,
the spread of infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C, and the exacerbation
of mental health conditions (Becker et al., 2019). The crisis has placed a significant
strain on the city's healthcare system, with opioid-related hospitalizations and
emergency department visits rising in recent years (Philadelphia Department of
Public Health, 2021). Furthermore, drug abuse has contributed to increased rates of
homelessness, crime, and social instability, undermining the overall well-being of the
community (Mach et al., 2019).
3.2 Overarching Policies

The fight against drug abuse in Philadelphia demands a comprehensive approach

that integrates evidence-based strategies, community engagement, and targeted
interventions. In April 2023, Philadelphia's Opioid Response Unit (ORU) released an
action plan focusing on community-specific engagement and harm reduction, aiming
to reduce stigma, improve access to evidence-based treatment, and tackle the
overdose crisis head-on (Syed, 2023). The Substance Use Prevention and Harm
Reduction (SUPHR) program collaborates with community partners, businesses,
schools, and places of worship to disseminate targeted messaging and combat
stigma, promoting the dignity, autonomy, and health of individuals who use drugs
(Department of Public Health, n.d.).

Pennsylvania's policies play a crucial role in addressing the drug abuse crisis. The
Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) tracks prescription drug dispensing to
prevent misuse and diversion, providing healthcare professionals with real-time data
to make informed decisions and curb opioid overprescribing (Uzuni, 2018). The
Naloxone Distribution Policy prioritizes statewide efforts to distribute naloxone, which
is available without a prescription, empowering community members to reverse
opioid overdoses and save lives (Board of Health and Department of Public Health,
2021).

4.0 THE PROBLEM STATEMENT AND PREVIOUS EFFORTS

The opioid crisis in Philadelphia is a public health emergency, with devastating

consequences for individuals, families, and communities. In 2021, 1,276 lives were
lost to unintentional fatal overdoses, marking a 5% increase from the previous year
(Syed, 2023). The city’s street drug supply has become more potent and
unpredictable, primarily due to the prevalence of fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic
opioid. Fentanyl often combines with xylazine, an animal tranquillizer not meant for
human use, leading to severe wounds and complicating overdose reversal efforts
(Syed, 2023).

Efforts to combat this crisis have been multifaceted. The Philadelphia Resilience
Project (2018-2019) focused on critical neighbourhoods, including Kensington, and
involved joint emergency responses across 35 city offices. However, the work
continued through the establishment of the Opioid Response Unit (ORU) in 2019.
The ORU coordinates citywide strategies, targeted interventions, and resource
alignment. Despite these efforts, overdose fatalities persist, disproportionately
affecting communities of colour (Reyes, 2021). The challenge lies in addressing the
complex interplay of opioids, stimulants, and systemic barriers to care, necessitating
ongoing collaboration and innovative solutions (Syed, 2023; Reyes, 2021)
5.0 PROPOSED SOLUTION

To address the drug abuse crisis in Philadelphia, a comprehensive approach that

combines innovative strategies and evidence-based practices is essential. One
unique solution is the establishment of safe injection sites, or supervised
consumption facilities (SCFs), which provide a hygienic and controlled environment
for individuals to consume pre-obtained drugs under the supervision of trained
healthcare professionals (Veen et al., 2023). Although Philadelphia has not yet
implemented SCFs, evidence from other cities indicates that they can be effective in
reducing overdose deaths and connecting individuals to treatment services (Kerr et
al., 2017). Additionally, expanding medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs,
which integrate FDA-approved medications with behavioural therapies, can reduce
opioid use, lower overdose risk, and increase treatment retention rates (Connery,
2015; Volkow et al., 2014). Philadelphia can improve access to MAT by increasing
the number of licensed providers, reducing treatment barriers, and integrating MAT
into primary care settings (Samet et al., 2018).

Furthermore, implementing a comprehensive harm reduction approach is crucial in

mitigating drug abuse. Harm reduction strategies focus on minimizing the negative
consequences associated with drug use without necessarily requiring abstinence
(Hawk et al., 2017). In Philadelphia, this could include expanding naloxone
distribution programs, increasing access to sterile syringes, and providing fentanyl
test strips (Park et al., 2019). Lastly, addressing the social determinants of health,
such as poverty, housing stability, access to education and employment
opportunities, and mental health support, is vital in tackling the root causes of drug
abuse (Dasgupta et al., 2018). By addressing these underlying factors, Philadelphia
can create a more supportive environment that promotes recovery and reduces the
likelihood of drug abuse.

The proposed multi-pronged approach, including safe injection sites, expanded MAT
programs, harm reduction strategies, and addressing social determinants of health,
offers a sustainable, feasible, effective, and scalable solution to mitigate drug abuse
in Philadelphia. Safe injection sites have been shown to reduce overdose deaths and
connect individuals to treatment (Veen et al., 2023), while MAT programs have
demonstrated effectiveness in reducing opioid use and improving treatment retention
(Volkow et al., 2014). Harm reduction strategies and addressing social determinants
of health provide a comprehensive, long-term approach to tackling the root causes of
drug abuse (Dasgupta et al., 2018; Hawk et al., 2017).

5.1 STAKEHOLDER ANALYSIS

Stakeholder analysis in public health refers to the systematic process of identifying,

assessing, and engaging relevant individuals, groups, or organizations who can
influence or are affected by a health issue or intervention. These stakeholders play
critical roles in shaping health policies, programs, and research. By understanding
their interests, power dynamics, and perspectives, public health practitioners can
make informed decisions and foster collaboration for effective health outcomes
(Schiller et al., 2013).

Stakeholder Role

City Government ● Establish policies and regulations

to support the clinic.
● Allocate funding and resources
for drug abuse prevention and
treatment programs.

Healthcare Providers ● Provide medical services,

including detoxification and
counselling.
● Collaborate with the clinic to offer
evidence-based treatment
options.

Law Enforcement ● Assist in identifying high-risk

areas and monitoring drug
trafficking.
● Coordinate efforts to combat
drug-related crimes.

Community-Based Organizations ● Engage in outreach and

education to raise awareness
about substance abuse.
● Provide support services and
harm reduction strategies.

Educational Institutions ● Partner with schools to

implement prevention programs
and educate students about drug
risks.
● Train educators to recognize
signs of substance misuse.

Individuals with Lived Experience ● Share personal stories to raise

awareness and reduce stigma.
● Advocate for policy changes and
community support.

DRONE Clinic’s impact extends beyond medical care as it strengthens community

bonds, saves lives, and promotes resilience in the face of drug abuse. Together, we
can lift Philadelphia to new heights of health and resilience.
5.2 TIMELINE

Using a Gannt chart, the timeline of activities for the establishment of the clinic will
be provided. It is shown in Figure 1 below.

Figure 1: Timeline for Drone Clinic

5.3 BUDGET
Figure 2: Budget for Frosh Wellness Clinic

REFERENCES
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