Rural communities in Wisconsin step up efforts to combat fentanyl overdoses

Rural communities across Wisconsin have recently stepped up efforts over the past year to prevent drug overdoses, with 91% of opioid overdose deaths in those parts of the state now being attributed to fentanyl , according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

Marshfield Clinic Health System’s Center for Community Health Advancement distributed NaloxBoxes in 43 locations across rural Wisconsin to increase access to naloxone, a drug that can help reverse fentanyl overdoses. The boxes were allocated to eligible nonprofit organizations on request.

“Every minute is precious when a person overdoses, particularly in rural areas where emergency responders and hospitals are further away,” CCHA Community Health manager Meagan Barnett said Friday. “Placing a NaloxBox in these community centers to make naloxone available can ... save a life. Marshfield Clinic Health System recognizes the need to invest in substance use resources in our communities as substance use disorders and overdose deaths continue to increase.”

The CCHA used federal funding from the Health Resources & Services Administration and the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program to install and maintain NaloxBoxes, which cost around $1,100 each.

Barron County, in northwest Wisconsin, received a total of 23 boxes, which were distributed to nonprofits in the Rice Lake Area, Cameron, Turtle Lake, Cumberland and Barron Area School Districts.

Rusk County, also in the northwest, received nine boxes, with the School District of Flambeau, Indianhead Community Action Agency Connections Store, Bruce High School, Hawkins Area Library, Indianhead Community Action Agency, Offering Hope Therapies, Inc., Rusk County Lighthouse, North Cedar Academy Boarding School and Ladysmith High School receiving one each.

Dodge County, in southeast Wisconsin, received seven, all installed within the Beaver Dam Unified School District.

Portage County in central Wisconsin received four, distributed to Evergreen Community Initiatives, the Stevens Point Fire Department, and the Town of Pine Grove.

“Our goal was to provide a resource for communities to foster stigma reducing conversations while providing the public with basic education around harm reduction,” Barnett said. “Everyone deserves a chance to seek recovery, and harm reduction efforts will foster the ability for someone to do that, when they are ready.”