Any organization that has an interest in providing naloxone (e.g., Narcan®) to the public may apply to become a Community Distributor. State statute defines a Community Distributor as “an organization, either public or private, which provides substance use disorder assistance and services, such as counseling, homeless services, advocacy, harm reduction, alcohol and drug screening, and treatment to individuals at risk of experiencing an opioid-related overdose” (S.C. Code Section 44-130-20(2)). The statute was written broadly on purpose to allow different kinds of organizations to receive the Community Distributor designation.
No. In 2023, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration approved Narcan® as the first over-the-counter naloxone treatment available nationwide in pharmacies, grocery stores and online. Other forms and dosages have followed.
Yes. S.C. Code Section 44-130-70(D) provides that “A community distributor that distributes an opioid antidote in accordance with the provisions of this section is not as a result of an act or omission subject to civil or criminal liability.”
In November 2018, the S.C. Boards of Medical Examiners and Pharmacy issued a joint protocol concerning Community Distribution of naloxone. The protocol details the designation criteria and tasks DAODAS with evaluating applications. The protocol requires applicants seeking designation as Community Distributors to submit the following information to DAODAS:
- a letter of intent outlining the applicant’s purpose and involvement in the delivery of substance use disorder assistance and services to individuals at risk of experiencing an opioid-related overdose;
- proof of IRS identification or tax designation;
- evidence of an organizational mission statement or charter that identifies the applicant as meeting the definition of “Community Distributor” under S.C. Code Section 44-130-20(2); and
- two references from credible state or local entities, such as, but not limited to a substance use disorder treatment provider, a community mental health center, city or county governmental officials, faith organization, or local law enforcement officials.
The application, including all attached letters of recommendation, proof of IRS identification, etc., are to be e-mailed to Community.Distribution@osus.bhdd.sc.gov.
The joint protocol approved both intranasal and intramuscular forms of naloxone for distribution by a Community Distributor.