Barriers to access naloxone in New Brunswick still exist, experts say
Global News
Accessing naloxone kits in New Brunswick can still be a challenge for residents in the province's rural communities, according to critics and experts.
For the harm reduction program coordinator at Avenue B in Saint John, it feels like these days, nearly everyone is seeking training on naloxone kits.
“They come in, and they just do the 15-minute training, and we go over the kit with them and then they’re good to go,” said Diane Kerns.
In recent months, Avenue B has seen an increase in demand for the kits, but at this point, Kerns isn’t worried about supply.
Saint John police issued a warning Wednesday regarding an increase in overdoses through the first four months of 2022.
While access to naloxone — a fast-acting drug used to temporarily reverse the effects of opioid overdoses — remains fine in large markets, concerns are being raised about rural areas in the province.
Memramcook-Tantramar MLA, and Green Party Health Critic Megan Mitton said the community of Sackville is one of the few rural areas fortunate enough to have adequate access to naloxone kits.
“Yes, there’s a lot of need in cities. There’s also need in rural areas, and there’s fewer resources. That’s why it needs to be really accessible,” Mitton said.
Mitton is proposing a model where kits are both available and free at pharmacies across the province.