Our team provides dedicated support to nine Missouri Fire/EMS agencies implementing the cutting-edge practice of medic-initiated field buprenorphine (Suboxone) for the first time in Missouri.

This is a life-saving intervention for individuals experiencing opioid overdose or withdrawal to access effective medication for opioid use disorder. Through this project, paramedics are trained and equipped to deliver this treatment in the field, rapidly stabilizing patients and reducing repeat overdose risk. We provide targeted technical assistance, clinical education, and evaluation of implementation to support agencies in success with this new practice.

EMS Buprenorphine Pilot Districts:

  • Central Jackson County Fire Protection - Jackson County

  • Raytown Fire Department - Jackson County

  • Mehlville Fire Protection District - St. Louis County

  • Christian Hospital EMS - St. Louis County

  • MU Health Care EMS - Boone County

  • Joachim-Plattin EMS - Jefferson County

  • Rock Township Ambulance District - Jefferson County

  • Abbott EMS - St. Louis City/County

  • Lincoln County Ambulance District - Lincoln County

EMS buprenorphine also improves patient outcomes by creating the opportunity for paramedics to provide linkage to care between emergency response and long-term treatment post-overdose. This project works to improve training and referral practices between first responders and EPICC.

“The EMT responded to a call for chest pain and heart problems and the client stated she is also a fentanyl user. EMT shared information about the EPICC program and the client agreed to meet with a Recovery Coach. The Recovery coach met with the client [at the ER] and shared about EPICC services and discussed MAT options. … After the client was finished [with a treatment program arranged by the EPICC coach], she returned home and stayed in contact once a week for a couple months. The client was extremely grateful to be free of using Fentanyl. She shared with me that she was speaking to her children again and even got to see her grandchildren. The client expressed gratitude to all the people that helped her get to this point. She shared that this was the first holiday season in a long time that she was not on any substances and felt joy.”

EPICC Recovery Coach testimonial, Fall 2025

This work is funded by the Missouri Department of Mental Health, Community Opioid Funding.