University Hospital Emergency Medical Services (UH EMS) has expanded its overdose response efforts with the official launch of buprenorphine administration on all Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Mobile Intensive Care Units (MICUs) across Newark, Orange and East Orange.
Buprenorphine is a lifesaving medication for opioid use disorder that relieves withdrawal symptoms and reduces urges, providing patients with immediate access to treatment at the point of crisis. This transformative program strengthens the hospital’s capacity to directly address opioid withdrawal within the community.
“For many in our community, University EMS first responders are often the first health care professionals they see. Offering buprenorphine in the field is a turning point that will help provide immediate relief and connect patients to long-term recovery wherever they are,” said Jason Brady, executive director of University Hospital EMS.
Buprenorphine begins providing relief within minutes, significantly reducing the time patients in withdrawal must wait for care. Research shows that patients treated with medicines, such as buprenorphine, have a significantly lower risk of death. One in 10 people experiencing an overdose may die within a year if not connected to treatment.
“This new initiative gives our paramedics another critical tool to support patients in crisis,” said Anna Michelle Brandt, chief operations officer at University Hospital. “By expanding buprenorphine induction to all University Hospital paramedic units, EMS can provide rapid stabilization, relieve withdrawal symptoms and quickly connect patients to ongoing treatment and recovery care.”
“I am thrilled to see this work finally come to Newark,” said Kaitlan Baston, interim president and CEO at University Hospital. “This lifesaving program will help stop the cycle of overdose and provide resources to people with addiction, while also freeing up resources for our EMS teams to treat other emergencies more efficiently.”
