North Carolina communities are facing a growing crisis – the opioid epidemic. While overdose deaths decrease across the nation (with an almost 27% drop from 2023-2024), Vaya Health understands that there’s still much to be done to quell this epidemic locally.
According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), from 2000-2023, more than 41,500 North Carolinians lost their lives to a drug overdose. Each day in 2023, 12 North Carolinians died from a drug overdose. Recent year data is not yet final, but an estimated 3,025 North Carolinians (eight per day) are suspected to have died from an overdose in 2024.
But there is hope through increased access to a lifesaving drug that reverses the effects of opioids. NARCAN, an opioid overdose reversal medication available for over-the-counter use, makes it easier for individuals to access a life-saving solution to a heartbreaking epidemic.
NARCAN, the nasal spray form of naloxone, is designed to be easily administered by non-medical personnel, such as police officers or family members of someone at risk of overdose. The nasal spray allows for quick and easy administration of the medication, without the need for a needle or injection.
As the first organization in the state to bring NARCAN to North Carolina in 2016, Vaya’s efforts against the epidemic have made us a leader in the industry, providing support, resources, and treatment to those in need. With the increased need for NARCAN prevalent, Vaya Health has kept the NARCAN supply in stock to ensure that the communities we serve have access to this life-saving resource.
From January to June of this year, Vaya has distributed 1,874 cases (44,976 doses) of NARCAN to over 140 agencies across 32 counties. The distribution of NARCAN not only aids overdose prevention but brings awareness to substance use across the state while supporting the recovery process. By partnering with local organizations and community-based initiatives, Vaya ensures NARCAN is distributed efficiently and effectively.
Post-Helene Distribution Efforts
In May, Vaya received a special allocation for additional NARCAN distribution in Hurricane Helene impacted areas. The purpose of this allocation, which came from NCDHHS as part of the N.C. General Assembly’s disaster-response efforts, was for distribution to first responders, community organizations, and high-risk areas to reverse opioid overdoses in real-time – saving lives and reducing the burden on emergency healthcare systems.
As of June, Vaya distributed a total of 649 cases (15,576 doses) of NARCAN to 119 sites, including EMS, police, fire departments, and other first responders.
In addition to increasing access to NARCAN, Vaya also offers a range of services to support individuals and their families affected by substance use, including medication-assisted treatment, counseling, and peer support.
If you, or someone you know, is struggling with opioid use, don’t wait. Contact Vaya Health’s Behavioral Health Crisis Line today to learn more about available resources and services at 1-800-849-6127.
