Anne Arundel County Installs Lifesaving Vending Machines

Annapolis, MD (March 11, 2024) – The Anne Arundel County Department of Health has installed seven vending machines stocked with the free lifesaving medication naloxone (brand name Narcan). Naloxone can potentially reverse opioid overdoses, including those caused by heroin, fentanyl, and prescription medications. These machines also provide other essential tools, such as fentanyl test strips, xylazine test strips, masks, and COVID-19 tests.

Dr. Tonii Gedin, Anne Arundel County Health Officer, explained that these strategically placed vending machines aim to reduce barriers to critical harm reduction tools. By offering naloxone and other supplies without stigma, the county hopes to prevent overdose-related deaths.

The initial seven locations were carefully chosen based on data highlighting areas with the highest overdose rates and an assessment of foot traffic and accessibility:

  1. Brooklyn Park Library – 1 E 11th Avenue, Baltimore, MD
  2. Deale Library – 5940 Deale Churchton Road, Deale, MD
  3. Eastport Community Center – 1014 President Street, Annapolis, MD
  4. Jennifer Road Detention Center – 131 Jennifer Road, Annapolis, MD
  5. Severn Center – 1160A Reece Road, Severn, MD
  6. Ordnance Road Correctional Center – 600 E Ordnance Road, Glen Burnie, MD
  7. Glen Burnie Health Center – 416 A Street SW, Glen Burnie, MD (coming soon; temporary location while the Glen Burnie Health Center is under construction)

These vending machines allow discreet access to lifesaving medication, bypassing potential stigma or embarrassment. Providing Narcan at no cost encourages everyone, regardless of substance use, to carry this vital drug.

Anne Arundel County Fire Chief Trisha Wolford emphasized the importance of accessible opioid interventions. As first responders, their priority is saving lives through proactive solutions and partnerships.

The machines operate without requiring money and were funded through grants from Culinary Ventures Maryland.

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