Opioid overdoses continue to be one of the greatest public health crises facing families and communities across the county and here in Michigan.

In 2018, there were more deaths from drug overdoses than car crashes, according to state representatives. Many of these deaths are the result of someone taking pain medication illegally, without a prescription.

Medication Take Back events provide safe locations for disposing of unused or expired medications while also protecting communities and the environment.

Research shows many people do not properly dispose of their medications, increasing the potential of them being diverted into the community and waterways. Medication Take Back events serve to educate the community on how to safely use and store medication as well as offer the opportunity to dispose of unused and expired prescription medications. This includes: over-the-counter medications, liquids, needles, inhalers and vitamins.

Holland Hospital is proud to partner with Community Mental Health of Ottawa County, the Holland Department of Public Safety, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and the Michigan Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network (OPEN) to host a Medication Take Back Event on Saturday, October 23 from 10 AM – 2 PM. This is the third year Holland Hospital has participated in this community event. During the 2019 Medication Take Back Day, the hospital collected 532 pounds of medication and 30lbs of needles.

To avoid unnecessary contact, this year’s event will be set up as a drive-thru in Holland Hospital’s main Visitor parking lot. Individuals will be able to dispose medication and needles confidentially.

Approved opioid collectors — primarily pharmacies and law enforcement agencies ­— and special take back events are the safest and most environmentally friendly means of disposing unneeded medications.

Please join us in making a difference in our community.