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911 Survey: A Quarter Of Hoosiers Who Give Naloxone Don’t Call For Help

By Jill Sheridan, IPB News | Published on in Health, Statewide News
(Photo: Public Domain)

A survey says more than a quarter of Hoosiers that have to give a life-saving dose of the opioid overdose reversal medication naloxone to friends or family don’t call 911 afterwards. As Indiana Public Broadcasting’s Jill Sheridan reports, many cite a fear of arrest despite a law that protects them.

Enacted in 2015, Aaron’s Law allows anyone in Indiana to obtain a prescription for naloxone, opioid overdose reversal medication, without fear of arrest.  Associate Professor Dennis Watson is researching the progress of recent Indiana laws aimed to curb the opioid epidemic.  He finds a majority of respondents did or would call 911, but 27 percent would not.

“And truthfully when we’re dealing with a life or death situation that is problematic no matter how small the numbers.”

The survey cards where placed in naloxone kits that people purchased after Aaron’s Law went into effect. Over 1,200 cards were returned in less than a year. Watson says researchers were surprised first responders filled out surveys as well.

“They’ll say ‘I’m a first responder,’ but that they are picking it up for family member or friend.”

The surveys have been sent out to 36 Indiana counties.