Background: In 2019, cocaine was involved in over half of New York City (NYC) overdose deaths, often with fentanyl. During COVID-19, substance use–related morbidity and mortality persisted amid increased isolation and stress. Public health detailing previously conducted in-person required rapid adaptation to virtual delivery to continue provider education.

Objective: To implement and evaluate NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s (DOHMH) first virtual detailing campaign to educate healthcare providers about cocaine risks, fentanyl in the drug supply, and harm reduction strategies.

Methods: From September–November 2020, DOHMH conducted an 8-week campaign targeting prescribers in areas with high cocaine-related mortality across all five NYC boroughs. Four core messages were delivered via remote one-on-one video detailing, supported by action kits with tools and educational materials for providers and people seeking care. Detailers were trained in person-centered, non-stigmatizing, equity-focused communication. Evaluation used pre- and post-visit surveys of knowledge, attitudes, and intended practice changes.

Results: Despite pandemic-related logistical barriers, the campaign reached 671 providers (84% of target). Among providers completing both surveys (n=186), knowledge of fentanyl in the drug supply increased from 75% pre-visit to 95% post-visit. Intent to provide harm reduction information rose from 63% to 91%. Over 80% found materials useful and planned to incorporate recommendations.

Conclusions: DOHMH successfully transitioned detailing to a virtual format during a public health crisis, preserving overdose prevention education and improving provider knowledge and intent to adopt harm reduction practices. This replicable approach can help maintain critical public health interventions during emergencies and underscores the importance of flexible, innovative, equity-centered responses to substance use.