Avera Health Expands Access to Life-Saving Naloxone Across South Dakota
Avera Health is partnering with Emily’s Hope to increase the availability of naloxone, also known as Narcan®, at numerous locations throughout South Dakota. This initiative aims to combat the rising rates of opioid overdoses by placing this critical, life-saving medication directly into the hands of community members.
Understanding Naloxone and Opioid Overdose
Naloxone is a nasal spray that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose by quickly restoring breathing.1 It works by blocking the effects of opioids like pain pills or heroin, providing a crucial window of time for emergency medical assistance to arrive. Importantly, naloxone is safe to administer even if someone is not experiencing an opioid overdose.1
Opioids are powerful narcotics often prescribed for severe pain, but they carry a high risk of addiction and overdose.2
Avera and Emily’s Hope Collaboration
The partnership between Avera and Emily’s Hope reflects a shared commitment to prevention, community health, and reducing the stigma associated with substance use disorder.3 Emily’s Hope, a Sioux Falls-based nonprofit founded by Angela Kennecke after the loss of her daughter Emily to fentanyl poisoning, will provide the naloxone kits and ensure the distribution boxes remain stocked.1
“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with Emily’s Hope to make naloxone more widely available across the Avera footprint,” said Mara Hermiston, DO, chief medical officer for Avera Medical Group.4
Naloxone Distribution Locations
As of March 2026, free naloxone is available at the following Avera locations:
- Avera St. Luke’s Emergency Room (Door 1, near admitting) in Aberdeen.2
- Avera Behavioral Health Urgent Care – 69th Street, Sioux Falls.1
- Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center Emergency Department, Sioux Falls.1
- Avera Sacred Heart Hospital Emergency Department, Yankton.1
- Avera Missouri River Health Center, Gettysburg.2
Naloxone is also available at most pharmacies throughout South Dakota. You can find a pharmacy near you at letsbeclearsd.com/prevention/reverse-overdose or request a kit online through Emily’s Hope. A map of naloxone distribution locations is available at emilyshope.charity/find-narcan.
Recognizing an Opioid Overdose
Signs of an opioid overdose include:
- Leisurely or stopped breathing
- Pinpoint pupils
- Unresponsiveness
- Blue or pale lips and fingernails
If you suspect someone is experiencing an opioid overdose, call 911 immediately and administer naloxone if available.
This collaborative effort between Avera Health and Emily’s Hope represents a significant step towards addressing the opioid crisis in South Dakota and saving lives.