New vending machines offering free doses of naloxone (Narcan) – the medication to reverse opioid overdoses – alongside other public health and wellness resources have been placed at three area locations thanks to grant funding through the Washington County Health Department.
The “Overdose Data-to-Action” grant through the Maryland Department of Health provided the opportunity for the health department to place one machine outside of the entrance to the behavioral health services offices at 925 N. Burhans Blvd. That vending machine, along with one located inside of the emergency department at Meritus Medical Center will be available for the public to access 24/7. A third machine is located inside of the Washington County Free Library Alice Virginia & David W. Fletcher (Main) Branch at 100 S. Potomac St. and accessible during the library’s open hours.
“These locations are key to having Narcan and the other products available in the vending machines right where someone may have the greatest need – when leaving the hospital or coming to the health department for harm reduction services,” said Vicki Sterling, director of behavioral health services. “When resources like this are readily available, we are empowering individuals with what they need, right where they are and fostering a community that is prepared and resilient.”
The health department will keep the vending machines stocked with doses of Narcan, safe disposal kits for medications, hygiene kits, gun locks and medication safe storage devices. There is no cost for the supplies, as items are available when someone enters their gender and birth year. Usage instructions are included with each item selected.
The initial investment for the machines was $20,000 through the health department’s grant award. The cost for supplies is difficult to project initially, according to Sterling, but will become more apparent once the public begins using the machines.
“We will see which items are being utilized at higher frequencies and will budget and stock appropriately,” said Sterling.
“We appreciate our partnerships with Meritus Health and the Washington County Free Library where space was offered for the Narcan vending machines which we believe will make a positive impact on public health, safety and wellness in our community.”
Coverage: Herald-Mail, March 11, 2024; DC News Now, March 11, 2024
