This academic paper reviews evidence on first responder programs that take an assertive approach to making linkages to treatment for those with substance use disorders. A number of effective linkage strategies are described that reduce the barriers to rapid access to treatment.
Worthington N, Gilliam T, Mital S, Caslin S (2022). First Responder Assertive Linkage Programs: A Scoping Review of Interventions to Improve Linkage to Care for People Who Use Drugs. Journal of Public Health Management and Practice 28 (Supplement 6) S302-S310.