Legion-supported legislation Veterans Naloxone Access Expansion Act calls for VA to conduct a pilot program for veterans and their caregivers.
A piece of legislation supported by The American Legion was introduced this week that directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a pilot program on the provision of the life-saving medication Naloxone to veterans and their caregivers.
The Veterans Naloxone Access Expansion Act, sponsored by Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, R-N.Y., will expand Naloxone access to veterans and their registered caregivers at no cost and without a prescription through a two-year pilot program with VA pharmacies and medical facilities. Veterans who receive naloxone will be given education on its use and application, as well as additional resources regarding addiction, suicide prevention and mental health services.
Naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication, was distributed to almost 300,000 VA patients and resulted in 1,950 overdose reversals by 2021. While the VA policy states that Naloxone is provided at no cost to veterans, they must ask their provider for a prescription. Veterans not enrolled in VA health care must obtain it from an outside provider. As a result, The American Legion recognizes that the policy assumes veterans are educated on Naloxone’s purpose and places responsibility on the veteran to ask for a prescription and overlooks registered caregivers who are unable to access the life-saving medication from the VA.
Following the two-year pilot program, a report to Congress will be required to assess its utilization, feasibility of expansion beyond registered caregivers, and efficacy of a Naloxone consultation by an appropriate VA provider. The American Legion supports the passage of this bill as it removes barriers to life-saving medication and requires an assessment of the program.
“Naloxone is a lifesaving medication that has already prevented thousands of veterans from dying of an opioid overdose,” said American Legion National Commander James LaCoursiere Jr. “For many Americans, access to Naloxone is as easy as going to the local pharmacy. However, current VA guidelines restrict veteran’s access to this life saving medication by requiring a prescription and forcing their caregivers to pay out of pocket in the community. The American Legion and our 1.6 million dues-paying members support the Veterans Naloxone Access Expansion Act for creating a pilot program that would remove these burdensome requirements, saving veterans' lives. We are proud to have worked closely with Rep. D’Esposito and his staff in writing this bill, and commend their dedication to veterans’ health and welfare.”
The American Legion has supported the expansion of Naloxone access through Resolution No. 160: Complementary and Alternative Medicine and Resolution No. 1. Be the One Mental Wellness Committee.
- Legislative