Ascension Via Christi release
Manhattan, Kan. — Oct. 7, 2025 — Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, in partnership with CKF Addiction Treatment in Salina, has established a free, readily accessible naloxone distribution box. The box, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is located inside the exterior doors leading to the Manhattan hospital’s Emergency Department.
The new resource offers nasal naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl test strips and information on addiction treatment resources. Naloxone is a medication that rapidly reverses the effects of an opioid overdose.
Fentanyl test strips enable a person to check substances for the presence of the powerful synthetic opioid fentanyl. These supplies are available anonymously and free of charge. Kevin Oehme, Director of Pharmacy at Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, said, “Given the increasing number of overdose cases presenting in our emergency department, we identified a clear need for this resource in our community. It is accessible to anyone in the community at all times of day, without the need for an appointment or any questions being asked.”
Harm-reduction policies like legalizing fentanyl test strips and expanding access to naloxone have contributed to a decline in overdose deaths in Kansas over the past two years. Nevertheless, the opioid crisis remains a significant threat. During a five-week period from April 27 to May 31 this year, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment recorded 35 visits to emergency departments where overdose was suspected in Riley County, more than double the typical average.
"When agencies collaborate, patients reap the benefits, and this partnership is a perfect example of that principle in action,” said Michaela Loxterman, LAC, PCCM, Vice President of Medical Integration for CKF Addiction Treatment. “With broader access to naloxone, communities across the state have seen reductions in fatal overdoses. This vending machine is just another tool in that life-saving effort.”
To reduce the risk of death from opioid overdose, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration recommends that these people carry naloxone:
● People who are prescribed opioid pain relievers.
● People who are prescribed medicines to treat opioid use disorder.
● People who are at increased risk of opioid overdose, such as people who also use alcohol or other drugs such as benzodiazepines.
● Caregivers of people who are at risk of an opioid overdose.