SafeRx coalition highlights Narcan access and community partnerships in Lake County

Kim Tangerman, deputy health services director, spoke to the board on behalf of Mary Gross and the SafeRx coalition about the local response to overdose and the role of community partnerships in prevention.

Tangerman said the county has seen progress over several years: "In 2019, Lake County had the 2nd highest overdose rate in the 58 counties of California. In 2022, we moved to 12th," she said, framing that change as "meaningful progress" while also noting "this change demonstrates what can happen when a community comes together, commits to prevention, education, treatment, and recovery." Tangerman credited coordinated work across public health, behavioral health, health care services, tribal communities, law enforcement, community-based organizations and people with lived experience.

Tangerman outlined tangible harm-reduction access points already in place, saying, "We now have 8 Narcan newsstands and 4 vending machines providing free naloxone to community members." She also described expanded access to medication for addiction treatment, behavioral health supports and local outreach through the SafeRx coalition. Tangerman emphasized that the coalition's aim is to keep people alive so they can access treatment and recovery services.

The remarks were part of the board's proclamation for International Overdose Awareness Day. Tangerman requested follow-up outreach to a young woman who spoke earlier in the meeting; the board acknowledged the request and invited SafeRx partners for a photo after the item concluded.