Increasing access: Making naloxone available at highway rest areas.

Background: Naloxone is one of the most successful drugs in reversing the pharmacological effects of opioids and, in turn, preventing overdose. Increasing naloxone availability is an effective way to combat opioid-related overdose deaths. Recent changes in legislation across the United States have provided the jurisdiction to make naloxone more readily available. Naloxboxes are transparent, unsecured containers stocked with naloxone that are strategically placed in semi-private public spaces, such as restrooms. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of installing naloxboxes at highway rest areas in Ohio as a strategy to increase public access to naloxone. This assessment draws on the pilot partnerships with the Ohio Department of Transportation, emergency medical services, and public health agencies, and explores implications for broader community implementation. Methods: In collaboration with existing Ohio organizations, the HEALing Communities Study leveraged local and national funding to facilitate the expansion of naloxone use through the deployment of naloxone boxes at Ohio highway rest areas. Results: Naloxboxes were found to be well accepted by the public and sustainable in highway rest areas. Their successful implementation and ongoing maintenance relied on multisectoral support, requiring collaboration across community organizations, public health agencies, and other stakeholders. Conclusion: This innovative approach promoted the widespread distribution of naloxone while still preserving anonymity.