Oklahoma ends free Narcan and fentanyl test strip program due to costs

Oklahoma's Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse has decided to discontinue its free Narcan and fentanyl test strip vending machine program due to escalating costs. The program, which was initially budgeted at $5 million annually, ended up costing $14 million, with machines requiring frequent refills that added to the financial burden. The state reported a significant increase in fentanyl overdose deaths, rising from 50 in 2019 to 609 in 2022, highlighting the urgent need for accessible overdose prevention tools. Despite the program's termination, officials plan to continue providing Narcan and fentanyl test strips through over 400 community partners, ensuring that these life-saving resources remain available. Critics of the decision, including clients from the Tulsa Day Center, argue that the vending machines offered immediate access to these critical supplies, which could save lives in emergency situations. They express concern that requiring individuals to request these items from case workers may create barriers for those in need. The Tulsa Day Center's CEO noted that the vending machines had been effective in saving lives, with recent instances of Narcan being used successfully. The Mental Health Department acknowledged the importance of accessibility but emphasized the need to allocate resources more efficiently. The decision to end the vending machine program reflects a broader challenge in addressing the opioid crisis while managing public funds responsibly. As the state shifts its strategy, it remains to be seen how the changes will impact the availability of Narcan and fentanyl test strips for vulnerable populations, particularly those experiencing homelessness who may lack stable addresses for delivery services.