# The HANDS Act: Making Overdose-Reversal Medication Free at Hospitals

This bill makes naloxone—a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses—available for free when people leave hospitals, emergency rooms, or surgical centers. The goal is to get this lifesaving drug into the hands of people at risk of overdosing so they have a second chance if an overdose happens.

Here's what actually changes: If you're admitted to a hospital or treated in an emergency room and a doctor determines you're at risk for an opioid overdose, they can give you naloxone (also called Narcan) when you leave—completely free, with no copay or deductible. This applies to people on Medicare, Medicaid, and military health insurance (TRICARE). The bill specifically targets people with opioid use disorder, those taking opioids for chronic pain, and anyone using drugs that might be contaminated with fentanyl or other dangerous additives. The medication comes with instructions on how to use it, so you'd know what to do in an emergency.

The reasoning behind this is straightforward: hospitals already see people at high risk for overdose, and they have trained medical staff who can identify who needs this protection. Rather than requiring people to find a pharmacy, pay out of pocket, or deal with stigma from pharmacy staff, the bill makes hospitals distribution points for this potentially life-saving medication. The law takes effect January 1, 2024, and requires the FDA to issue guidance to help states implement this smoothly without creating barriers or safety concerns.