WSHA members are expanding their distribution of the life-saving opioid overdose reversal medication beyond the requirements of state law. Some creative strategies to increase community access to the medication commonly known as Narcan include:
- Vending machines.
- Baskets of naloxone in the ED lobby.
- Community partnerships with law enforcement and first responders.
- Expanded distribution at discharge.
A promising pilot led by WSHA’s Safe Deliveries Roadmap in partnership with the Naloxone Project distributed the medication to patients at risk of an opioid overdose who came to the hospital to give birth.
The postpartum period is a vulnerable time for anyone, and individuals with a history of substance use are at much higher risk of dying from an overdose. Participating hospitals received technical assistance and an allotment of naloxone to establish this new workflow, in addition to monthly learning sessions to review the purpose of naloxone, how to effectively offer naloxone to patients, and strategies for consistent distribution.
Safe Deliveries Roadmap will be leading another opportunity for birthing hospitals to distribute naloxone in labor and delivery units launching later this year. Hospitals interested in joining the project should contact Jenica Sandall. For hospitals wanting support in general expansion of naloxone distribution, contact Brittany Weiner. (Brittany Weiner)