DCCCA and Healthy Blue, announce the installation of new naloxone vending machines coming to Hutchinson and Wichita. Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is a medication designed to rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. This innovative approach aims to provide immediate first response to opioid overdoses and save lives within the Reno and Sedgwick County communities. Residents can access the free naloxone by simply entering their zip code. The vending machine in Hutchinson will be located at Crossover Recovery Center – 400 W 2nd Ave. and the Wichita vending machine is housed at Second Chance/Big Fish Bail Bonds – 705 N. Broadway.
“Through this partnership, we’re taking a proactive approach to addressing substance use disorders and mental health challengers in our community,” Bryan Baier, President of Healthy Blue. “By combining our resources and expertise, we aim to make a positive impact and provide the necessary tools to those who need them.”
Thanks to collaboration from our local partners: Hutchinson – Kansas Recovery Network and New Beginnings; Wichita – Second Chance Bail Bonds and Safe Streets Wichita. By making it readily available through these vending machines, individuals will have quick access to a life-saving intervention in critical situations.
“DCCCA is an organization dedicated to providing substance abuse treatment and prevention services,” Chrissy Mayer, DCCCA Chief Community Based Services Officer, said. “We recognize the importance of reducing the harm caused by opioid misuse and are proud to partner with this critical endeavor.”
Healthy Blue is a collaboration of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC) and Anthem Partnership Holding Company. For more information on how to request naloxone kits in Kansas, please visit https://www.dccca.org/naloxone-program/.