Breaking barriers

Evaluating access models for harm reduction vending machines

Dados Bibliográficos

ID14905945
AutoresAshleigh Herrera (0000-0001-7932-702X, California State University, Bakersfield, autor correspondente), Bradley T Conner (0000-0001-6069-4401, Colorado State University), Bradley Conner, Presleigh Beshirs (California State University, Bakersfield), Ricky N Bluthenthal (0000-0003-3491-1702, University of Southern California), Ricky Bluthenthal
Ano2026
Volume147
Páginas105079
Data de publicação2026-01-01
Peer ReviewedSim
Open AccessSim
TipoARTICLE
PeriódicoInternational Journal of Drug Policy (JOURNAL)
Identificadores do periódicoISSN: 0955-3959 • E-ISSN: 1873-4758
EditoraElsevier BV (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1016/j.drugpo.2025.105079
PMID41343981
OpenAlexW4416938272
IdiomaEN
Referências citadas11

The opioid epidemic continues to claim lives at alarming rates, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities, with structural barriers preventing equitable access to lifesaving interventions such as naloxone. Harm reduction vending machines (HRVMs) offer a promising solution to this issue, providing low-barrier access to naloxone and other harm reduction supplies. This study examines the impact of different HRVM access models on product utilization, specifically focusing on an outdoor HRVM, Project HOPE, located in Bakersfield, California. Initially, the machine required participant registration and imposed product limits; however, these restrictions were removed in August 2023 to improve access. An interrupted time series analysis of data from June to October 2023 reveal a significant increase in product utilization following the shift to unrestricted access, with increases in demand for naloxone kits, safer injection kits, wound care kits, and other basic needs supplies. The findings suggest that removing barriers to HRVM access, including registration requirements and product limits, can significantly improve the utilization of harm reduction supplies, potentially reducing opioid-related fatalities and promoting health equity. Further research is needed to evaluate the long-term impacts of unrestricted HRVM access models on overdose prevention and other health outcomes

Harm · Harm reduction · Opioid epidemic · Opioid overdose · Poison control · Product (mathematics · Psychological intervention · SAFER · HIV, Drug Use, Sexual Risk · Opioid Use Disorder Treatment · Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes