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Natchaug New London Site Receives $15k For Narcan For Families, First Responders

October 13, 2017

Thanks to $15,000 in funding from the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut (CFECT), families of clients at Natchaug Hospital’s Care Plus Groton/New London site and the city’s first responders will have better access to Narcan to help save the lives of opioid overdoes victims. 

The funding was officially announced during a ceremony at the New London Fire Department Headquarters on Oct. 12.

“Hartford HealthCare and Natchaug Hospital have a strong relationship with the city of New London, especially the fire department. This allows them to save someone’s life instantly. They are our first line of defense,” says Tom King, Vice President of Operations, Behavioral Health, Hartford HealthCare’s East Region. “And, it’s not just about saving their life; it’s about connecting them to care.  We have that ability to do that with this partnership.”

Natchaug Hospital will use funds from CFECT to purchase Naloxone kits, known commercially as Narcan, for family members of clients who have been treated for opioid addiction and/or overdose, and also distribute them to New London first responders. 

“We’re very proud of the quick response times of our ambulance service here in New London,” says New London Mayor Michael Passero, a former firefighter. “With Narcan, timing is everything.  This partnership is crucial because now the ambulance service can partner with the community, family members, friends and educate them on how to provide Narcan.  The extra time that is saved can be really important.” 

Narcan prevents opiate overdose death by quickly reversing the effects of the drug. While pharmacies in Connecticut can now prescribe and distribute Narcan and the accompanying kit over the counter, it is expensive and not covered by insurance.

New London Human Services Director Jeanne Milstein says New London has made strides in the opioid crisis and says community partnerships are crucial.

“Hartford HealthCare has been an essential partner,” she says. “We know we can get someone into treatment and that there are quality services available in the city.”

For more information, visit the Hartford HealthCare Behavioral Health Network.