Kanecountyconnects.com
The Kane County Health Department (KCHD) is collaborating with Advocate Health Care and Rush Copley Medical Center to expand access to naloxone, a lifesaving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. As part of this initiative, a naloxone dispenser has been installed in the emergency department at Advocate Sherman Hospital, 1425 North Randall Road, Elgin, and Rush Copley Medical Center, 2000 Ogden Avenue, Aurora, enabling community members to access naloxone for free and anonymously.
This effort underscores KCHD’s commitment to addressing the opioid crisis in Kane County by equipping individuals with the tools needed to prevent overdoses and save lives. The dispenser provides 24/7 access to naloxone, removing barriers like cost, stigma and transportation challenges.
“We recognize the importance of empowering our community with resources that make a difference,” said Michael Isaacson, executive director of the Kane County Health Department. “By partnering with Rush Copley Medical Center and Advocate Sherman Hospital, we aim to make naloxone readily accessible to those who may encounter an overdose situation, whether it’s for themselves, a loved one, or a bystander.”
The initiative aligns with KCHD’s broader opioid response strategy, which includes education, prevention, and harm reduction. KCHD aims to make naloxone available at as many locations throughout Kane County as possible to reduce the likelihood of an overdose death. KCHD also provides training sessions on recognizing overdose signs and administering naloxone, ensuring community members are prepared to respond effectively during an emergency.
“We are thankful for the Kane County Health Department’s partnership to help expand access to this lifesaving drug,” said Sheri De Shazo, president of Advocate Sherman Hospital. “This dispenser is an important step to help provide the community with naloxone. We know this will empower more people to help during an emergency and save lives.”
Education about fentanyl and increasing access to naloxone are part of the Advocate Sherman Community Health Improvement Strategy, addressing the behavioral health needs identified in their Community Health Needs Assessment.
Rush Copley also shares KCHD’s dedication to overdose prevention.
“As part of our ongoing commitment to community well-being, we are proud to partner with the local health department to provide naloxone dispensers in our emergency room,” said Stephen Kelanic, MD, vice president of medical affairs and chief medical officer at Rush Copley. “By equipping our community with naloxone, we are empowering them to take action in moments of crisis and ultimately saving lives.”
For more information about KCHD’s opioid response initiatives, including naloxone training sessions and other resources, visit: www.overdoseinfo.org
