Vermont continues to grapple with an opioid crisis.  From 2020 to 2022, the state experienced a 43% increase in opioid-related deaths.  Fentanyl and dangerous combinations of other drugs are fueling the crisis.  40% of Vermonters who overdose and receive naloxone (Narcan) subsequently refuse further medical treatment, elevating their risk of repeat overdose and death.  Rural communities are particularly affected, where access to healthcare and addiction treatment services are limited.  

Could immediate access to Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) for individuals refusing further care prevent future overdoses?

A new pilot provides access to buprenorphine in the field immediately after naloxone has been given to reverse an opioid overdose.  This proactive approach to treatment offers life-saving intervention at a critical moment, stabilizing patients early and significantly lowering the risk of repeat overdose.  It helps patients begin their treatment immediately and sets them on the path to recovery.

PREVENT (Prehospital Vermont EMS Buprenorphine Treatment) is a partnership between the Vermont Department of Health, UVM’s Department of Emergency Medicine, and first responders.  PREVENT has shown promising early results by reducing further overdoses.  It is being piloted in Burlington, Bennington, Brattleboro, Barre Town and Newport.  Six more pilot locations will soon be added.  The project includes a robust research infrastructure to assess its effectiveness.

The partners are also exploring the creation of SOS-VT, Statewide Opioid Support for Vermont.  This statewide hotline will provide support for health care providers navigating complex OUD patients and will help community members connect with resources tailored to their needs. 

Vermont Public covered this project with this radio story:

New buprenorphine initiative in Burlington aims to lower barriers to opioid addiction treatment