The RX and Illicit Drug Summit is one of the largest and most influential events addressing the Opioid & Addiction Crisis. To win the fight against the opioid epidemic and illicit drug use, a multifaceted strategy is needed, and the RX and Illicit Drug Summit brings together stakeholders nationwide to focus on collaborative prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts.
IDS had the opportunity to showcase during the 2024 RX and Illicit Drug Summit event. This blog explores IDS’ hard reduction solutions and how they are making a positive impact in communities.
Harm Reduction Vending Machines with iQ Tech:
Harm Reduction vending machines go beyond traditional vending, offering a unique solution to mitigate the risks associated with pharmaceuticals and illicit drugs. IDS’ harm reduction vending machines enable convenient, secure, and 24/7 access to essential supplies for safer drug use, overdose reversal, and infectious disease prevention, such as nasal spray Narcan (naloxone), Fentanyl test strip kits, safer sex kits, and other harm reduction supplies.
IDS’ Harm Reduction vending machines are powered by iQ Technology, which captures real-time data on supply usage and inventory levels. The robust 24/7 reporting capability offers complete control and visibility into managing harm reduction supplies. The ability to track and manage supplies anywhere and at any time enhances the efficacy of these harm reduction strategies. In addition, it makes reporting for staff easy. These reports can help staff plan, budget, and submit grant applications.
Accessing Harm Reduction Vending Machines
Individuals can access supplies 24/7 without on-site staff, reducing costs associated with staffing and distribution. Many users prefer this contactless dispensing solution due to stigma and privacy concerns.
To access the machine, clients can receive a unique code/PIN or card to enter and dispense the medical supplies they need quickly and efficiently. Once the card is swiped or the unique code/PIN number is input, users can receive products from the machine. The machines are versatile, dispensing many items and offering sharps containers for safe disposal.
Instructions for supplies can be included on product packaging or within the kits. QR codes can also be attached to the machine’s exterior, allowing users easy access to digital instructions.
Customer Spotlight: A success story with H.O.P.E Testing:
Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, H.O.P.E Testing distributes safer sex and harm reduction supplies, HIV self-tests, safe injection kits, Narcan, first aid kits, and pregnancy test kits through IDS’ harm reduction vending machines. Utilizing Harm Reduction Vending Machines has enabled H.O.P.E Testing’s accessibility and better tracking of harm reduction supplies.
“Our machine has been really popular and took off in a way that we hadn’t even anticipated or hoped for. In addition, it makes reporting really easy for us…really helpful for us to be able to show the impact and those outcomes very quickly using the backend software.”
Implement Harm Reduction Vending with the help of Federal Grants
Did you know that your organization could be eligible for Federal Grants to support the implementation of IDS Hard Reduction vending machines?
Recently, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), announced significant funding initiatives and allocated $36.9 million in grants to support behavioral health services across the United States (see announcement). This provides communities the support needed to implement comprehensive, evidence-based strategies, like IDS’ Harm Reduction Supply Dispensers.
Contact us today to learn more about the funding opportunities and how Harm Reduction vending machines can impact your community!
