By Bill Carey
EMS1
HENNEPIN COUNTY, Minn. — Hennepin EMS is now carrying Suboxone to treat opioid withdrawal symptoms after collaborating with addiction medicine experts to create a protocol for its administration.
Hennepin EMS has attended to over 1,000 patients needing naloxone to counteract an overdose in the last six months, Fox 9 reported.
“Patients who have experienced an overdose may have an opportunity to start this treatment while in the care of Hennepin EMS. After they have started treatment, it is much easier to get into a clinic and maintain this therapy,” Dr. Nicholas Simpson stated in a press release.
Hennepin EMS Chief Marty Scheerer stated the use of Suboxone could bridge a gap from emergency treatment to recovery for patients. The drug can now be prescribed by any physician with an active DEA license. Hennepin EMS paramedics are covered under the same license as they work under the direction of medical providers at HCMC, according to the press release.
“We may have one of the most comprehensive EMS protocols in the country to engage patients in this treatment when they are most likely to be receptive to seek change and get care,” Dr. Simpson said. “Patients who have experienced an overdose may have an opportunity to start this treatment while in the care of Hennepin EMS. After they have started treatment, it is much easier to get into a clinic and maintain this therapy.”
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