Partnership for Public Health hosted their first Naloxone Distribution event in Laconia, NH on January 11, 2016.  This event provided an opportunity for community members to learn about Naloxone and how to properly administer the drug in the event of an overdose.  It was well attended by over 50 community members and approximately 45 kits were distributed.  Resources were provided by, Insurance Marketplace PPHNH, Stand Up Laconia, LRGH, Horizons Counseling Center, Health First, F.A.S.T.E.R, Genesis Behavioral Health & Recovery Advocate Jane Sparks, with Naloxone training provided by Laconia Fire Department and LRGH.

Days after the event, Naloxone from one of the 45 kits distributed was successfully administered to an overdose victim in the community.  We consider this event a great success as it has already made a direct impact on the health and well being  of the community.  We are looking forward to hosting a second Naloxone Distribution event in Franklin in February.  For more information about the Partnership for Public Health, visit: www.pphnh.org. For questions about our region’s Naloxone events, contact: Lisa Leary at [email protected] or Kelley Gaspa at [email protected].

 

 

 

Advocates celebrated the recent naloxone (Narcan) distribution law passed in New Hampshire, but the implementation proves to be more complicated.  Naloxone is well known as a lifesaving drug for individuals suffering from an opioid overdose.  The state recently passed a law making it possible for family members of individuals with opioid addiction to receive a prescription for this drug and keep it on hand for an emergency.  Health care providers, insurance agencies, and pharmacies are necessary partners to ensure safety and access to naloxone.  There are educational trainings planned, but a clear understanding from many resources is required to make this new law transformative.

 

More information on naloxone distribution in New Hampshire and the current conversations surrounding use can be found here.