Naloxone Clinics: A Life-Saving Community Resource
LA County Library
Innovation Synopsis
To address the growing opioid overdose crisis in Los Angeles County, LA County Library, in partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, launched Naloxone Clinics. These events provide free naloxone (Narcan), a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses, at select libraries, along with providing a training video on administration to community members in need. Nearly 400 library staff were initially trained to administer naloxone in emergencies, and now, thanks to the Clinics, over 1,500 boxes have been distributed in underserved communities. This effort is a crucial step in combating the overdose epidemic.
Challenge/Opportunity
The Naloxone Clinics program addresses the critical issue of opioid overdose, specifically focusing on the alarming rise in fentanyl-related deaths in Los Angeles County. In 2022, fentanyl became the leading drug involved in accidental overdose deaths, resulting in eight to nine fatalities daily. The crisis disproportionately affects underserved and less affluent communities, where the rate of overdose deaths is over three times higher than in affluent areas. The program aims to tackle the accessibility gap for life-saving interventions by offering Narcan, which costs about $44.99 per box for free. Furthermore, the initiative seeks to reduce the stigma associated with obtaining and using Naloxone by offering it in a trusted and neutral setting like a library. By providing free Narcan and educating the public on its use, the program directly addresses the public health emergency of opioid overdoses and aims to save lives in vulnerable communities.
Key Elements of Innovation
The Naloxone Clinics program is a collaborative effort between LA County Library, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, and the California Department of Public Health. The initiative involves multiple phases: first, training nearly 400 library staff to identify and respond to opioid overdoses using Narcan, and second, establishing public distribution clinics at ten pilot libraries in high-risk areas. The key partners include the Board of Supervisors, which prioritized overdose prevention, and local media outlets that helped publicize the clinics. The program's uniqueness lies in utilizing libraries, a trusted and accessible community resource as distribution points for the life-saving medication. The initiative innovates the library field by expanding its role from traditional services to public health intervention.
Achieved Outcomes
To date, over 1,500 Narcan boxes have been provided to the public, indicating substantial demand and community impact. Additionally, the number of library staff trained—nearly 400—serves as a measure of preparedness and commitment to public safety. New partnerships formed through this initiative include collaborations with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and the California Department of Public Health, as well as engagement with local media outlets for outreach. Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the free availability of Narcan. Some community members, including educators and business owners, have highlighted the program's value in providing essential resources. Library staff also reported positive interactions, noting the program's importance and the appreciation shown by customers, particularly those who have experienced loss due to overdoses.
