Touchless Naloxone Distribution FAQ

 

What does “touchless” naloxone distribution refer to?

  • Providing naloxone training and supplies in ways that do not require meeting in person
  • Looking beyond traditional spaces—substance use disorder (SUD) treatment facilities, county health departments, libraries, etc.—to expand access

How can touchless distribution be helpful in rural communities?

  • Reduce the need to travel distances to get trained and obtain naloxone
  • Offer privacy and anonymity to individuals who may be reluctant to seek training in public spaces

How does remote training work?

  • Drawing on learning from train-the-trainer, SAMHSA’s toolkit, state guidance, and ready-made resources available from states and harm reduction groups
  • Flexible format communities can fit to their needs and resources, with methods such as:
    • Online training: e.g., bulleted text, images, brochures, recorded video, or video call
    • Communication by phone/text and brochures
  • Built-in mechanism to confirm understanding of material: e.g., live questions or online form

How does touchless distribution work?

  • Mailing naloxone: e.g., working with NEXT Distro, which has state-specific information
  • Drive-through at pharmacy or mailed from pharmacy
  • Vending machines, housings, or boxes in convenient locations
  • Home delivery/drop-off

Who can provide information about laws, strategies, and operations?