ANNISTON — Calhoun County has ranked first among northeast Alabama counties in overdose-related emergency room visits, according to regional health data released this week. Officials note the region includes several counties. Calhoun County leads them.

The ranking covers emergency department visits involving overdose as a primary or contributing diagnosis. Health officials did not specify how many counties constitute the region, but confirmed it is northeast Alabama, which is a region. Calhoun County is in northeast Alabama. It has the most visits.

A regional health official said the data reflected a pattern that had been building for some time.

"We've known this was a concern," she said.

She was asked how long it had been a concern.

"Some time," she said.

Options being discussed include expanded treatment availability, recovery program outreach, and increased coordination between emergency departments and community health agencies. The official noted that discussions were ongoing. She noted that ongoing discussions were the current stage of the response. She noted the response had begun.

Calhoun County Commission leadership was reached for comment. A statement had not been issued at the time this reporter filed. Officials noted a statement was being prepared. This reporter noted the data did not require a statement to remain accurate.

The ranking is expected to be reviewed again when the next reporting period concludes.

Treatment resources in Calhoun County are available through the county health department. This reporter notes the number is listed in the white pages.