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Naxolone Saturation

While we hope to reach a point in our community when we can support most people in accessing treatment and good health we must acknowledge the reality that overdoses will continue to occur. There is great opportunity to prevent deaths by ensuring that our community is saturated with naloxone kits, that people throughout the community know how and when to administer this lifesaving medication, and that people who are using opioids know about Connecticut’s Good Samaritan laws and don’t fear calling 9-1-1 if someone they are using with overdoses.

 

The Overdose Action Team works with residents and business owners to assure wide availability of naloxone. These are supported by a social marketing campaign that includes bus advertisements, social media postings and outreach at community events to normalize and promote naloxone. Training on how to use naloxone kits can be accessed here.

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THE GOOD SAMARITAN LAW:

These are immunity laws that provide protection from prosecution for calling 911 if seeking medical attention for self or another experiencing an overdose. In 2008, The US conference unanimously adopted a resolution supporting 911 Good Samaritan policies. By September 2011, Pennsylvania had enacted a Good Samaritan law that provides immunity to underage drinkers who call 911 because someone else needs medical attention. The law eliminates a disincentive for underage drinkers to call for help. This law does not protect individuals from opioid prosecution. Shortly after, New Mexico, Washington, New York, Connecticut, Florida and Illinois enforced similar laws on June 1, 2012. New Jersey, California, Hawaii, Minnesota, Massachusetts (House Bill), and Rhode Island are still considering the legislation. 

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A Timeline of the Good Samaritan Law in CT:

  • 2011: A “Good Samaritan” law was passed that protects people who call 911 for emergency medical services due to an overdose situation from arrest for possession of drugs and/or paraphernalia. This protection is limited to the situation and does not protect someone from other charges or if there is a warrant out for their arrest. (Public Act 11-210) 

  • 2012: The Narcan law allows prescribers (physicians, surgeons, physicians assistance, APRNs, and dentists) to prescribe, dispense, or administer naloxone to any individual to prevent or treat an overdose. The prescriber is protected from civil liability and criminal prosecution. (Public Act 12-159) 

  • 2014: The protection from civil liability and criminal prosecution was extended to the person administering naloxone in the case of an overdose. (Public Act 14-61) 

  • 2015: This legislation allows pharmacists who have been trained and certified to prescribe and dispense Narcan directly to customers requesting it. The pharmacist is required to educate the person on how to use the Narcan. (Public Act 15-198) 

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