Authorizes paramedics to administer buprenorphine following naloxone in opioid overdose cases and establishes a pilot program.

The bill aims to address Hawaii's opioid crisis by authorizing paramedics to administer buprenorphine following naloxone in cases of suspected opioid overdose. It requires the Department of Health to establish clinical and operational protocols for this administration, designate treatment centers capable of accepting patients within 24-48 hours, and ensure coordination between emergency services and treatment programs. The bill also mandates the Department of Health to implement a phased pilot program in counties with verified linkage to care capacity, with potential for statewide expansion.

Authorizes paramedics to administer buprenorphine following naloxone in opioid overdose cases and establishes a pilot program.

The bill aims to address Hawaii's opioid crisis by authorizing paramedics to administer buprenorphine following naloxone in cases of suspected opioid overdose. It requires the Department of Health to establish clinical and operational protocols for this administration, designate treatment centers capable of accepting patients within 24-48 hours, and ensure coordination between emergency services and treatment programs. The bill also mandates the Department of Health to implement a phased pilot program in counties with verified linkage to care capacity, with potential for statewide expansion.