The Everett Fire Department’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department has launched a new pilot program that allows paramedics to Buprenorphina medication used to treat withdrawal symptoms from opiate overdose.
Buprenorphine, a narcotic, can prevent withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings for the drug without a high. It has been shown that mortality from opioid addiction is halved when taken regularly.
After treating an overdose with naloxone, paramedics may administer a dose of buprenorphine to help ease withdrawal symptoms and provide protection from an opioid overdose for 24 to 48 hours. This medication also provides an opportunity to talk with patients about treatment, recovery, and social services.
Following an opioid overdose, eligible and willing patients can have their first dose of buprenorphine administered by a paramedic to treat withdrawal symptoms. Everett Fire Department social workers will then coordinate ongoing care and follow-up and assist the patient in accessing needed services and treatment programs.
This is the first time that the fire department’s integrated social worker program has been used as an outreach service rather than a referral service.Chief DeMarco emphasized the department’s comprehensive approach, stating: “This new program allows Everett Fire paramedics to immediately administer proven and effective medications to stabilize individuals with opioid use disorder. Together with our dedicated team of social workers, we are building a supportive network to connect individuals with the services and care needed to overcome their addiction. Our goal is to break the cycle of repeated overdoses and help more people begin their path to recovery and overall wellness.”
Since the pilot program was launched on Monday, July 29, 2024, five people have accepted the offer to receive buprenorphine and have been referred or connected to our fire department’s social workers.
Everett Fire is among the first five jurisdictions in the state and one of three agencies in Snohomish County to implement this program thanks to the support of Snohomish County Medical Program Director Dr. Ryan Keay.
“This represents a unique opportunity for harm reduction in the preclinical setting,” says Dr. Keay. “Paramedics are available to treat the acute medical condition of accelerated withdrawal after overdose reversal. The social workers who do this work are highly trained and passionate about making a difference in the lives of these patients.”
The program has been supported by the Snohomish Health Department and is designed to measure its effectiveness. Dr. Keay expressed optimism, saying: “Studies have shown that one in three patients who agree to treatment with buprenorphine subsequently breaks the cycle of opiate addiction.”
The partnership with the Snohomish Health Department has enabled the development of a comprehensive data tool to evaluate program outcomes and effectiveness. The department will work closely with them to measure the effectiveness of this program. This includes collecting information on the outcomes and effectiveness of the program in positively impacting the lives of those affected by opioid addiction.
This collaborative effort represents significant progress in addressing the challenges posed by opioid addiction and underscores the commitment of the Everett Fire Department and its partners to saving lives and promoting recovery in the community.
