Buprenorphine, a medication designed to address withdrawal symptoms from opiate overdoses.
Press release from the Everett Fire Department
EVERETT, AUG. 23: The Everett Fire Department’s Emergency Medical Services Division (EMS) has launched a new pilot program allowing paramedics to administer buprenorphine, a medication designed to address withdrawal symptoms from opiate overdoses. This medication aims to stabilize patients in the field in the short term and provide relief from withdrawal symptoms, facilitating crucial discussions around treatment, recovery, and social services.
Buprenorphine, a narcotic medication, can prevent withdrawal symptoms and reduce drug cravings without causing a high. It has been shown to cut mortality from opioid addiction in half with regular use. After reversing an overdose with naloxone, paramedics may offer a dose of buprenorphine to help manage withdrawal effects and provide 24 to 48 hours of protection from opioid overdose. This medication also creates an opportunity for engaging patients in conversation about treatment, recovery, and social service connections.
Following an opioid overdose, eligible and willing patients can have their first dose of buprenorphine for withdrawal symptom management administered by a paramedic. The fire department’s embedded social workers will then coordinate continuous care and follow-up, assisting the patient in accessing necessary services and treatment programs. This marks the first time the fire department embedded social worker program is being used as a responder service rather than a referral service.
Chief DeMarco emphasized the department’s comprehensive approach, stating, “This new program enables Everett Fire paramedics to promptly administer proven and effective medication to stabilize individuals facing opioid use disorder. Coupled with our dedicated social worker team, we are establishing a supportive network to link individuals with the necessary services and care to overcome addiction. We aim to break the cycle of repeated overdoses and support more people in commencing their journey toward recovery and overall well-being.”
Since the pilot program was implemented on Monday, July 29, 2024, five individuals have accepted the opportunity to receive buprenorphine and have been connected or referred to our fire department’s social workers.
Everett Fire is among the first five jurisdictions in the state and one of three agencies within Snohomish County to implement this program, thanks to the support of the Snohomish County Medical Program Director, Dr. Ryan Keay. “This represents a unique opportunity for harm reduction efforts in the prehospital world,” states Dr. Keay. “Paramedics are poised to address the acute medical condition of precipitated withdrawal following overdose reversal. The social workers engaged in this work are highly trained and passionate about changing the lives of these patients.”
The program has received support from the Snohomish Health Department, with plans to measure its efficacy. Dr. Keay expressed optimism, stating, “Studies have shown that one in three patients who agree to buprenorphine treatment go on to break the cycle of opiate addiction.”
The partnership with the Snohomish Health Department has enabled the development of a comprehensive data tool to assess program outcomes and effectiveness. The department will be working closely with them to measure the efficacy of this program, involving gathering information on outcomes and the effectiveness of the program to impact the lives of those affected by opioid addiction positively.
This collaborative effort signifies a significant step forward in addressing the challenges posed by opioid addiction. It underscores the commitment of the Everett Fire Department and its partners to saving lives and promoting recovery in the community.
