Construction has commenced on the National Center for Opioid Research & Clinical Effectiveness (NCOR) at Arkansas Children’s Hospital, with plans for the facility to open in 2027. This center aims to investigate the impact of opioid misuse and other substance-related issues on children, expectant parents, and families. By focusing on research and community outreach, NCOR aspires to improve health outcomes for those affected by opioid-related challenges.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to foster recovery-friendly environments in the workplace, as Arkansas relaunches its Together Arkansas program. NCOR will implement several innovative programs designed to address the needs of vulnerable populations. Among these is the Eat, Sleep, Console Care Approach, which targets newborns diagnosed with neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome. Additionally, a home-visiting program and a game-based intervention are planned to combat adolescent prescription drug misuse.
In a significant investment in healthcare, Attorney General Tim Griffin has allocated $55 million from opioid and vaping settlement funds to support the center. Arkansas Children’s Hospital will contribute an additional $20 million to ensure the successful launch of NCOR. This collaboration underscores the commitment of state officials and healthcare providers to address the opioid crisis, particularly among children and families.
Griffin highlighted that NCOR will be the first of its kind in the United States, positioning Arkansas as a national leader in healthcare innovation. The 65,000-square-foot facility will be located within the Arkansas Children’s Hospital campus in Little Rock. Dr. Alicia Allen, a behavioral epidemiologist, has been appointed as the center’s director, bringing her expertise to guide its research and outreach initiatives.
The center’s objectives include training at least 150 healthcare providers across Arkansas to recognize children and adolescents at risk for exposure to opioids and other substances. By equipping medical professionals with the necessary tools to provide timely interventions, NCOR aims to mitigate the long-term effects of substance misuse on youth and families.
With the establishment of NCOR, Arkansas Children’s Hospital is taking a proactive approach to a pressing public health issue. The center’s focus on research and community engagement is expected to yield valuable insights that can inform policies and practices, ultimately fostering healthier environments for children and their families.