The California Department of Health has issued an All Facilities Letter addressing the epidemic of drug overdose deaths in the United States. The letter highlights the importance of naloxone, an opiate antagonist that quickly reverses overdose and counteracts potentially fatal respiratory depression caused by opiates. In response to this letter, healthcare facilities, including nursing homes, should be aware that naloxone has been added to the Medi-Cal formulary and is covered by Medi-Cal and other health plans, including Medicare. The department recommends considering naloxone for any patient on chronic opioids and prescribing it to patients known to be using opiates non-medically. Facilities should also provide brief instruction on naloxone use. This letter aims to increase awareness and utilization of naloxone to prevent opiate overdose deaths in healthcare settings.

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