County launches new program to tackle opioid overdose crisis
NaloxBox program aims to save lives across SLO County
– The San Luis Obispo County Behavioral Health Department has launched the NaloxBox program to reduce opioid overdose fatalities by providing easy access to life-saving medication. The initiative, announced earlier this month, places 23 self-contained, publicly accessible units across the county, stocked with naloxone nasal spray (Narcan), CPR face shields, gloves, and instructions for emergency overdose response.
“With the opioid crisis affecting our community deeply, we’re committed to expanding access to life-saving interventions,” said Star Graber, PhD, LMFT, Behavioral Health Department director. “By making naloxone available in these NaloxBoxes, we’re empowering community members to take immediate action and potentially save lives.”
The NaloxBoxes, which contain two doses of naloxone, were placed in key locations across the county, including public parks, libraries, and county health centers. The boxes are designed to assist individuals until emergency responders arrive. Naloxone, an opioid reversal medication, works similarly to an automatic external defibrillator but is intended for opioid emergencies.
“The NaloxBox program is a critical resource for our community,” said Jenn Rhoads, SLO Opioid Safety Coalition coordinator. “Last year alone, we lost 116 members of our community to overdoses. Having these resources accessible throughout the county means that anyone can step in and provide potentially life-saving assistance.”
Funding for the program comes from the county’s opioid settlement funds and the California Department of Health Care Services’ Naloxone Distribution Project. The initiative follows California laws, including the 9-1-1 Good Samaritan Law and the Overdose Treatment Act, which protect those who administer naloxone in good faith from legal consequences.
To learn more about the NaloxBox program and find a full list of locations, visit www.slocounty.ca.gov/NaloxBox.
