Vancouver Island hospital vending machines to dispense needles, naloxone

Drug users will be able to access harm reduction supplies, such as needles, naloxone and drug-testing strips, from vending machines at three Vancouver Island hospitals. Located outside hospital ERs, the machines will also dispense information on substance use treatment and mental health supports. The kiosks are an alternative for people who currently visit ERs in search of harm reduction supplies. Island Health says harm reduction kiosks can reduce overdose rates, decrease HIV and Hepatitis C transmission and distribute more naloxone and testing strips than in-person services.