Title: Santa Clara County Launches Mail-Order Program for Free Opioid Overdose Reversal Nasal Spray
In a proactive move to combat the growing opioid crisis, Santa Clara County in California has launched a mail-order program to distribute Narcan, a life-saving nasal spray that can reverse opioid overdoses. The initiative aims to make this crucial medication readily available to residents who may be at risk or witness an overdose, while also addressing the concerns of individuals who may feel uncomfortable obtaining it in person.
Narcan, also known as naloxone, gained FDA approval for over-the-counter use without a prescription last year. Since then, it has become a popular tool in saving lives and preventing opioid-related deaths. Santa Clara County has already made Narcan available free of charge in numerous libraries across the region, and the mail-order program is the latest effort to widen access to this vital medication.
Since December 1, the county has successfully fulfilled nearly 60 requests, totaling 120 kits, through the Narcan mail-order program. To obtain Narcan, residents can simply contact the county via phone or email, with the nasal spray being delivered promptly within 24 hours.
The mail-order program not only provides the medication but also offers training materials to equip individuals on how to administer the drug effectively. Upon receiving the Narcan kit, recipients will receive a manufacturer’s training video via email and find a QR code on the box that provides additional instructions.
Supervisor Cindy Chavez highlighted that the decision to introduce a mail-order program was motivated by residents’ prior experiences receiving prescriptions or COVID-19 tests through the mail. This innovative approach ensures that those who need Narcan have a discreet and convenient method of obtaining it without fear of judgment or stigma.
Furthermore, Santa Clara County has been actively addressing the opioid crisis by implementing various strategies. In addition to the mail-order program, the county offers free in-person trainings and Narcan distribution at several county clinics. These efforts align with California’s statewide initiatives, such as mandating safety plans for opioid overdoses in schools and providing fentanyl test strips in colleges and universities, demonstrating the state’s commitment to combating this pressing issue.
Residents interested in learning more about the mail-order program or accessing Narcan can find detailed information on the county’s website. Additionally, the county encourages community members to participate in the free in-person trainings to further educate themselves on opioid overdose response and prevention.
With these comprehensive efforts, Santa Clara County and the state of California are taking significant steps towards addressing the opioid crisis head-on, ensuring the well-being and safety of their communities.
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