Rocky Mountain HIDTA Drug Information Opportunity Symposiums

Recognizing the importance of collaboration between public health and public safety, the four Overdose Response Strategy (ORS) teams in the Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (RMHIDTA) region—Wyoming, Montana, Utah and Colorado—implemented annual Drug Information Opportunity Symposiums (DIOS). These annual events are designed to bring partners together to share information, highlight effective strategies and strengthen relationships that help prevent overdoses and respond to emerging threats.

Since 2021, the RMHIDTA ORS teams have hosted 15 DIOS events across the region. Each year, the teams build on one another’s efforts by sharing lessons learned, refining agendas and introducing new formats to strengthen engagement. This coordinated approach has improved facilitation, expanded reach and ensured that each symposium offers practical, actionable takeaways.

DIOS events feature expert speakers and sessions on prevention, treatment and recovery, policy and emerging drug trends. The events also highlight innovative state and local programs, connect participants with community resources and include interactive components such as panel discussions, open Q&A sessions and K-9 demonstrations that foster dialogue between public health and public safety. By rotating venues and offering virtual access, the teams have broadened participation across both rural and urban areas, attracting an average of 60–70 participants per event with a growing virtual audience.

Now in its fourth year as a coordinated four-state series, DIOS has become a cornerstone for regional partnership—strengthening relationships, increasing shared situational awareness and fostering new opportunities for joint initiatives. Participant feedback highlights improved understanding between sectors, and annual briefings from task force commanders have provided valuable insights that inform local policy and practice. Together, the RMHIDTA ORS teams are building a more connected and coordinated approach to preventing overdose and expanding partnerships across the Rocky Mountain region.