TL/DR –
The University of Michigan has installed vending machines offering health and wellness products including contraceptives, personal care products, and other medications. The machines were installed in response to a university task force recommendation, to allow students to acquire items such as naloxone nasal spray for suspected opioid overdoses and emergency contraception discreetly. The majority of the items are priced between $1.50 to $5, with the naloxone nasal spray being provided for free.
Health and Wellness Vending Machines Installed at University of Michigan
Newly installed vending machines at the University of Michigan are now offering a wide range of health and wellness items. The machines, located in the Michigan Union and other points across the Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint campuses, provide access to medications, contraceptives, and personal-care products.
These health-focused vending machines are the result of a university initiative aiming to ensure discreet access to items like naloxone nasal spray for potential opioid overdoses and emergency contraception among others. The machines also offer condoms, lubricants, tampons, rapid COVID-19 tests, pain relievers, and personal hygiene products.
“We understand the urgency and discretion needed when seeking these products, hence, our aim to make the access process comfortable and swift,” stated Susan Ernst, chief of gynecology and sexual health at University Health Service. “Additionally, we provide QR codes on naloxone and emergency contraception boxes linking to directions and further resources for support.”
The prices of most items within the vending machines are expected to range between $1.50 and $5, with some notable exceptions. A two-pack of COVID-19 tests, for example, are priced at $10, as is the emergency contraceptive. However, naloxone nasal spray is available for free.
The installation of these machines follows the recent overturning of the nationwide right to a legal abortion in the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2022 decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. Robert Ernst, the university’s chief health officer, stated, “These machines are a practical demonstration of health promotion. By incorporating these products into our campus, we’re adhering to our objective of being a health-promoting university.”
The university will monitor the highest-selling items in the machines to determine future restocking efforts. More machines may be installed on the Ann Arbor campus in the future as needed.
For updates on machine locations, visit the University Health Service website.
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