Pictured - Peace Chukwuma and Shelly Verma. SILVER CITY, N.M. – November 10, 2026 – HMS would like to remind the residents of Hidalgo and Grant Counties that life-saving naloxone, commonly known by the brand name Narcan, is available through two vending machines located at HMS facilities. These machines are part of New Mexico's statewide naloxone distribution initiative, funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and administered by the New Mexico Health Care Authority's Behavioral Health Services Division through a State Opioid Response (SOR) grant.
Naloxone is a medication that can rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, including overdoses involving prescription opioids, heroin, and fentanyl. When administered promptly, naloxone can restore breathing and potentially save a life. By increasing access to this medication, HMS aims to reduce barriers to overdose prevention resources and provide individuals, families, and community members with an important tool in emergency situations.
"The true measure of a community is how it responds to those most at risk. Narcan vending machines are more than dispensing units; they are symbols of hope, compassion, and our unwavering commitment to keeping people alive long enough to find recovery." - Shelly Verma, HMS Chief Behavioral Health Officer
According to finalized data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), New Mexico recorded 775 drug overdose deaths in 2024. More recent provisional CDC estimates indicate that overdose deaths in New Mexico increased approximately 28% during the 12-month period ending March 2026 compared to the previous 12-month period. These statistics highlight the continued need for overdose prevention efforts, community education, and access to life-saving resources.
The Grant County naloxone vending machine is located at HMS Community Health Center, 1007 N. Pope Street, Silver City, NM 88061, and is accessible Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Hidalgo County vending machine is located at HMS Lordsburg Clinic, 530 DeMoss Street, Lordsburg, NM 88045, and is accessible Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Wednesdays from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
These vending machines are designed to increase access to naloxone while helping reduce the stigma often associated with seeking overdose prevention resources. Through this initiative, HMS continues to support New Mexico's efforts to address substance use disorders and promote healthier, safer communities.
HMS encourages community members to become familiar with the signs of an opioid overdose and the importance of having naloxone readily available. Whether for personal preparedness or to assist someone experiencing an overdose, access to naloxone can make a life-saving difference.
Hidalgo Medical Services (HMS) is a nonprofit, Federally Qualified Health Center dedicated to providing comprehensive, integrated, and affordable healthcare services to the residents of Grant and Hidalgo Counties in southwestern New Mexico. HMS is committed to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves through accessible, high-quality, patient-centered care.
