UW Health helps supply MMSD with naloxone

MADISON, Wis. – Thanks to a collaboration between UW Health and the Madison Metropolitan School District, every automated external defibrillator, or AED, storage cabinet in district buildings will also carry the opioid-overdose-reversing drug naloxone.

UW Health received grant funds from Dane County in 2023 to supply the drug and purchased it through the UW Health pharmacy, according to Tom Carroll, program director, Behavioral Health Services, UW Health.

“We had an existing relationship with the district and when the opportunity arose to help them with the project, we were happy to jump in and assist,” he said.

District buildings are used by many in the community, not just children during the school day, and many of Madison’s recreational centers for adult sports are also part of the school district. Because so many people use the facilities, having this life-saving medication on hand is a valuable public health measure, according to Kari Stampfli, health services coach and lead nurse, Madison Metropolitan School District.

“This medication stops an overdose,” she said. “By having this medication immediately available, we can save a life.”

The district has 90 AED boxes distributed throughout 50 buildings, which includes Madison School & Community Recreation locations. The drug will be refilled after each use through existing community partnerships.

“We are thrilled to have this collaboration with UW Health and can’t thank them enough for helping the district protect the people that use our facilities,” Stampfli said.