Vending machines used to reduce harm in Somerset County
Princess Anne
MARYLAND – What if you could potentially save someone’s life by just a clicking of a few buttons? The Health Department in Somerset County is determined to put resources into the community’s hands, and potentially reduce harm.
Peer pressure, fear, and embarrassment are just some of the reasons people are afraid to get help. The Somerset County Health Department has rolled out its Harm Reduction Vending Machines, in their most recent effort to bring more resources into the community. The machines are located in Princess Ann and Crisfield, the county’s most populated areas, and this is not your average vending machine.
William Johnson is a peer specialist for the Wellness and Recovery Center. He says this service can help individuals having a crisis on the weekend or when support services are closed. “Think about it, you know, where are they going to go? If they can’t go to family members, they can go to this machine… They might get into a situation where they need Narcan or if they live close by they could run over here and get it, you know because it’s free.”
According to Elizabeth Justice Prevention Supervisor for Somerset County Health Department, despite the help this could bring, individuals suffering from addiction still face a big stigma. “So, harm reduction is a type of prevention strategy that recognizes and meets individuals where they are… We’re hoping that we can address health disparities, that can ultimately reduce the morbidity and mortality of overdose use.”
Justice tells us the machine is handicap accessible and includes translations into Spanish. The machine is stocked with Narcan, also known as Naloxone, a nasal spray used in the emergency treatment of an opioid overdose, and includes condoms and toiletry bags. The machine also includes test strips, so individuals can see if drugs like cocaine are laced with opioids. Deterra bags are also included which are an environmentally friendly, and secure, way to dispose of medications.
The health department’s biggest concern is that people will misuse the machines, so they are urging the community to respect the materials. Though not everyone may be on board with the idea Justice hopes that everyone can respect the efforts. “So, we realize we might not be able to change your behavior, but what we can do is help connect you with resources.”
The Somerset County Health Department noted to use the machine it is completely free, and you can stay completely anonymous. They also say their wellness and recovery center is open and that hopefully, those who use their machine will eventually come in to get help, but until then, if you have a friend or family member suffering, their machine is available.
