Spotlight
Harm reduction, broadly speaking, refers to reducing harm for individuals who use drugs. Harm reduction, which uses public health strategies, takes a health-first approach to care while improving social justice and health equity. Harm reduction vending machines, which supply harm reduction supplies to people who use drugs, are an evidence-informed practice. Supplies vary by machine, but can include sterile injection equipment, first aid kits, HIV and STD tests, and pregnancy tests. In light of the opioid epidemic, many states are investing in naloxone vending machines, or including naloxone in existing harm reduction vending machines. Naloxone, brand name Narcan, is an inhaled medication used to reverse an opioid overdose while it’s occurring. Using harm reduction machines, including for naloxone, is free, with many offering fentanyl test strips.
According to a 2024 article from CNN, approximately 33 states invest in naloxone vending machines; there may be additional programs by community-based organizations operating outside of state involvement. Machines are often placed in areas with high numbers of reported overdoses, in rural areas to improve access to needed materials and other key places people may congregate, such as university campuses and libraries. These vending machines are critical, particularly because they provide free care, are less stigmatizing, don’t track data from drug users, and because they can reach individuals who may be harder to engage in typical service provision, such as younger people and people newer to drug use. Check out Cincinnati’s study about the effectiveness of a single harm reduction vending machine and another study in Nevada that describes the impact of dispensing naloxone through vending machines and its impact on combatting overdose deaths.
Key Takeaway: Consider investing Byrne JAG in harm reduction vending machines, particularly if your state is particularly impacted by the opioid epidemic. In addition to the machines themselves, funds could be spent on awareness campaigns and even locators to help members of the public find available harm reduction resources.
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