(BROOME COUNTY, NY) Broome County has received reports of increased non-fatal overdoses over the last few days. The Broome Opioid Awareness Council (BOAC) wants to remind the community about the virtual Narcan trainings that are being offered throughout the county.
The Addiction Center of Broome County (ACBC), Helio Health, Southern Tier AIDS Program (STAP) and Truth Pharm are all offering virtual trainings in a way that protects a community member who would like to be trained and the staff from these organizations. You can simply call, text, reach out on Facebook or send an email and you will be connected with a staff member who will ask you a few questions and train you on the spot. It will then be decided the best way to get you a Narcan kit.
It’s especially important now more than ever to check on those with a substance use disorder and make sure both the family and the person who uses drugs to have a lifesaving Narcan kit. For more information and where to find phone numbers visit: broomecountyny.gov/boac.
Narcan is the drug used to reverse an overdose of opioids including heroin and prescription pain pills like morphine, codeine, methadone and Vicodin. Participants will learn about overdose prevention and how to correctly administer Narcan.
Community members can also visit their local pharmacy and use the Naloxone Co-payment Assistance Program (N-CAP), no prior prescription from a medical provider is needed. Call your pharmacy ahead to ensure availability.
Additionally, support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), counseling and services provided by local agencies are being offered virtually. Residents are also encouraged to call 211 with questions or if they are looking for more information or help.
Those those with a substance use disorder should practice harm reduction measures and not use alone, have a Narcan kit available and if you are on the site of an overdose call 911.
