Governor increases number of medication collection boxes
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News from the office of the Governor of Montana Steve Bullock
HELENA — Last week Gov. Bullock announced the State of Montana is utilizing a $730,000 federal grant to help reduce the misuse and abuse of prescription drugs by increasing the number of medication collection boxes at our local pharmacies.
"Prescription drug abuse is a daunting problem, not just here in Montana, but all across the nation," Gov. Bullock said.
One of the best ways to address opioid abuse is through the safe, convenient, and proper disposal of unused medications.
"As Attorney General in 2010, I created the Montana Prescription Drug Registry to provide doctors and pharmacists the tools they need to curb prescription drug abuse," Gov. Bullock said. "I also started the prescription drop box program at local law enforcement offices around the state."
The governor and state health officials are working with the Board of Pharmacy and the Montana Pharmacy Association to distribute several hundred metal collection boxes to local pharmacies.
A total of 212 38-gallon boxes and starter packs of liners are being offered at no cost to retail pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics with on-site pharmacies to be used to collect and then dispose of prescription drugs.
The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, the Board of Pharmacy and the Montana Pharmacy Association will be working quickly to identify pharmacies that are interested in the program and distribute collection boxes in the coming weeks. For information on how to request a collection box, please contact DPHHS Prevention Coordinator Christine Steele at 406-444-1202 or by email at csteele@mt.gov.
