The Naloxone Project
Washington Chapter
The Washington Chapter has made significant strides in advancing naloxone distribution and addressing opioid-related challenges since its establishment. Building on the successful model of the Colorado Chapter of the Naloxone Project, Washington's implementation of State Bill 5195 mandates hospitals to identify at-risk individuals and dispense naloxone directly from emergency departments. Spearheaded by the Department of Health and the WA State Hospital Association, efforts to create reimbursement structures for naloxone have been crucial for hospitals to adopt these programs. While the chapter has achieved notable milestones, including the passage of SB 5185 in 2022 and SB 5804 in 2024, challenges remain in provider engagement, tracking success metrics, and ensuring participation across hospitals.
2,750
Naloxone Kits Distributed
11,122
Opioid Overdose-Related ED Visits in 2025
Programs & InitiativesLegislative Advocacy & Action
The Washington Chapter is working diligently to pass legislation that would legalize the use of expired naloxone.
Partners of the Washington Chapter
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Washington Department of Health
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Washington State Hospital Association
Washington Leadership
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Dr. Steve Anderson- Chair
Dr. Stephen Anderson attended the University of Michigan for undergrad and medical school, and began residency there. Finished training at the University of Washington and joined the Emergency Department staff at Auburn General Hospital in South Seattle in 1986. Practiced there for 35 years as it grew into MultiCare Auburn Medical Center, holding positions including Chairman of Emergency Services, Stroke Care, Trauma Care, Education, and Chief of Staff. Devoted himself to issues to make our communities healthier, being named the Physician of the Year in Seattle by the American Heart Association, and the Guardian of Emergency Medicine by the WA Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians, among many awards. As President of the WA Chapter of ACEP, fought flawed public policies surrounding restrictions on access to care for State Medicaid patients and Mental Health Boarding in ED's. Co-authored the WA State 7 Best Practices.