‘Program has not proven to be cost-effective’: ODMSAS removing Narcan vending machines across the state

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — On Friday, the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse announced they will be removing Narcan and fentanyl test strip vending machines across the state effective immediately.

The vending machines were first implemented back in May 2023 with the goal of combatting the rising number of overdose deaths due to fentanyl by making prevention products more accessible to the public. The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics reports that fentanyl was responsible for over 700 deaths in 2023.

ODMHSAS now plans to start pulling those vending machines from the field, with the goal of removing all of the machines by the end of September. According to ODMHSAS Commissioner Allie Friesen, the department determined that the vending machines were too costly as a distribution method.

“An initiative that was originally launched as a pilot program under previous leadership has been thoroughly evaluated over time,” Friesen said. “After reviewing the financial implications, data, and overall outcomes, it has become evident that the program has not proven to be cost-effective, nor has it consistently delivered the positive results we had hoped for. As a result, we are re-evaluating our approach to ensure that future initiatives are aligned with our goals for both financial sustainability and improved outcomes for those we serve.”

ODMHSAS also cites stock shortages, machine malfunctions, and logistical difficulties as contributing factors to the decision, saying it strained their distribution partners.

The vending machines are expected to be replaced with marketing posters featuring QR codes. The department says the QR codes will then direct individuals to access points and provide information about receiving products by mail.

“By adopting this revised strategy, we aim to provide a more effective and efficient experience for everyone involved,” said Andrea Hamor Edmondson, Senior Prevention Program Manager for ODMHSAS. “This transition will allow us to conserve resources and reinvest them into our agency’s strategic initiatives, ensuring we continue to deliver high-quality services to those in need.”

To request Narcan, fentanyl test strips, or other prevention materials, you can contact the Overdose Prevention team at overdose.prevention@odmhsas.org or visit okimready.org/overdose .

OKC-based harm reduction organization SHRED the Stigma sent News 4 the following statement regarding to ODMHSAS announcement.

While we are saddened by the phasing out of this innovative approach to distributing Naloxone and fentanyl test kits, especially the added anonymity of vending machines, we remain hopeful.

ODMHSAS continues to provide these supplies to SHRED the Stigma and will continue its mail-out program. More information can be found at vending machine locations and online. Organizations and individuals can also partner with the department to arrange larger orders for distribution in the community.

This change in service is not a failure of harm reduction but a reminder that mutual aid is the most effective way to reach our neighbors. Rural communities face the greatest challenges in the overdose crisis, as they have less access to supplies and more people are using alone. Communities like No More Dead Friends in Cushing and Drywater Harm Reduction in Catoosa are leading by example – helping friends make it to another day. Let’s not let them be the only ones.

If you have questions or want to get involved, email us at contact@shredthestigmaok.org .

SHRED the Stigma

News 4 also reached out to the Homeless Alliance on Friday afternoon with questions about how the loss of the vending machines might impact the unhoused, and will update this when we hear back.

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