Each station offers access to COVID-19 antigen test kits, naloxone, fentanyl test strips, and more
In an effort to combat rising public health threats, including opioid overdoses and the spread of infectious diseases, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has installed three Community Health Stations in Santa Monica that dispense free overdose reversal kits, COVID-19 tests, and sexual health supplies.
The vending machine-style kiosks—located at The People Concern’s Turning Point, Samoshel, and Access Center facilities—are part of a broader countywide initiative that launched earlier this year. According to a press release from the L.A. County Department of Public Health, a total of 51 machines have been deployed so far, with plans to expand to 100 across the county.
The Santa Monica kiosks are accessible to the public at the following addresses:
- Turning Point (1447 16th St) – open 24/7 Monday through Friday
- Samoshel (505 Olympic Blvd) – open 24/7, seven days a week
- Access Center (503 Olympic Blvd) – open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Each station offers self-service access to COVID-19 antigen test kits, naloxone (used to reverse opioid overdoses), fentanyl test strips, internal and external condoms, and personal lubricant. No ID, insurance, or payment is required. The program is designed to reduce barriers to health resources in underserved areas and at-risk populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness.
“These supplies allow individuals to take actions that protect themselves and others in the community,” said Dr. Barbara Ferrer, director of the L.A. County Department of Public Health, in a statement. “Having free public health supplies available seven days a week through these stations makes it easier to access important products that support health and save lives.”
The Community Health Stations were developed in partnership with the Department of Public Health’s Substance Abuse Prevention and Control Bureau, and the Division of HIV and STD Programs. While users can voluntarily complete an anonymous demographic survey on the machines’ touchscreens, no personal information is required to use the service.
For a full map of machine locations or more information, visit ph.lacounty.gov/CommunityHealthStation.
