Los Angeles County Library has initiated free naloxone clinics at selected library locations to tackle the opioid crisis, with the backing of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and the California Department of Health Care Services, as announced in a press release from the LA County Library. The clinics will operate starting today until November 9.
The establishment of naloxone clinics follows an approval by the Board of Supervisors, headed by Chair and Supervisor Janice Hahn, in October 2022 to equip LA County Library branches with naloxone. The medication known as Narcan is capable of reversing opioid overdoses and treating fentanyl poisoning. The objective of these clinics is to broaden accessibility to naloxone, particularly for those affected by the opioid epidemic.
The Lancaster Library, West Hollywood Library, Leland R. Weaver Library in South Gate, East Los Angeles Library, and Lennox Library participate in these clinics. Patrons at these locations can obtain a free dose of naloxone after a quick video session on administering the drug. No identification, insurance proof, or payment is required. One dose per customer will be issued while stocks last, as reported by the Los Angeles Daily News.
Reflecting on the unanimous approval of the motion last year, it is clear that opioids are a significant public health concern in the U.S. Hahn mentioned in a statement, “Naloxone is easy to use, anyone can carry and it saves lives. I have heard from parents who are scared and want to have naloxone on hand in case of an emergency at home." Offering naloxone at local libraries aims to make this life-saving treatment reachable to anyone who might require it.
Barbara Ferrer, the Director of the LA County Department of Public Health, stressed that the fentanyl crisis is "a tragedy of historic proportions." She added that, “Illicit fentanyl is heavily impacting all our communities, leading to the tragic losses of thousands of our loved ones."
Skye Patrick, Los Angeles County Library Director, lauded the crucial role of naloxone clinics in tackling the critical issue of opioid overdoses and ensuring the health of community members. "Ensuring the health and wellbeing of our Los Angeles County communities is a priority for the LA County Library," said Patrick. He commended the California Department of Health Care Services and the County Department of Public Health for their support on the project.
For more details and naloxone clinic schedules, visit LACountyLibrary.org/naloxone.
