Law enforcement will join paramedics and EMTs across the state as first responders who carry the lifesaving drug Naloxone. The drug counteracts the effects of opioid overdoses which can often end in death if not treated.
A $250,000 grant through BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation bought 2,400 doses of the drug. It will be given to law enforcement agents statewide.
"We are facing an epidemic. There are more opioid prescriptions than there are people in this state," said state house speaker Beth Harwell. "In 2015, over 1400 Tennesseans died from drug overdose, the highest of any time in our state's history."
Currently, many paramedics and EMTs already carry the drug in ambulances. However, ambulances aren’t always the first to respond to cases where Naloxone is needed, which is why other first responses agencies are applauding the move.
"We're definitely seeing an increase in calls in the last several months," said Nashville Fire Department paramedic Chad Tidwell. "It can be the difference between life and death."
Tidwell said paramedics are responding to scenes where Naloxone is used every day. He has had several instances where he has had to give a patient the drug.
"Some of these new opioids that have come out are more powerful, it takes a larger amounts. So, we increased our stock quite a bit," said Tidwell.
The overdose treatment will now be accessible in all 95 counties across the state.
