The Butler County Health Department in conjuction with Missouri Highlands released a Narcan vending machine at the Poplar Bluff Health Department, the first of its kind in the state of Missouri, on Tuesday, May 31.
Health Director Emily Goodin addressed those in attendance at the machine unveiling, “It is because of our community partners and our great working relationships that we’re able to provide this Narcan vending machine to our community.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there has been a significant rise in the number of opioid-related deaths in recent years. The state of Missouri alone has seen a death rate increase of over 15% related to the opioid epidemic.
The CDC website states, “In nearly 40% of overdose deaths, someone else was present. Having naloxone available allows bystanders to help a fatal overdose and save lives.”
Narcan, also known as Naloxone, is a medication designed to reverse an opioid overdose by blocking the opioid receptors in the brain. This life-saving drug can restore normal breathing to a person who has overdosed within 2-3 minutes.
“Amy Bland is our health educator here at the Butler County Health Department, she facilitates all of our Narcan programs for first responders and health educators, without her expertise we couldn’t do,” said Goodin.
During the unveiling Bland demonstrated how to use the machine. “The white end (of the voucher) goes in first, just like a chip machine, put in the number, hit check out...And then we have sheets with instructions that show you how to use it,” said Bland.
The process is discreet, simple and quick. The machine is stationed in the lobby of the Health Department, and the needed instructions and vouchers are located on the wall next to the machine.
“This is completely free of charge to those in need,” said Goodin, “No cost thanks to Missouri Highlands, we have a voucher that you use, you just have to be 18 years of age or older.” There will also be no requirement of personally identifying information.
Missouri Highlands will hold an instructional class on how to administer the drug at the health department. For those interested in signing up for those classes, please contact the Butler County Health Department.
This project was made possible by the dedication and effort of many, including employees of the Butler County Health Department, Goodin and Bland, as well as Missouri Highlands Medical Project Director Lisa Martin.
“Many other states have implemented similar machines, but they are available in county jails or drug rehab facilities, so this makes our machine very unique in our community.” said Goodin, “It is my hope that we are now able to reach more people and put Narcan in the hands of those who need it the most.”