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Google Maps Launches Feature to Help Fight the Opioid Epidemic

Users of Google Maps in seven states will be able to use the platform to more easily locate prescription drug disposal locations.

(TNS) — Colorado is one of seven states where Google is making it easier to quickly find prescription-drug disposal locations on Google Maps and Search, the company announced in a Thursday news release.

Users can type in queries such as "drug drop off near me" or "medication disposal near me" and Google Maps will display permanent disposal locations at local pharmacies, hospitals or government buildings for the safe disposal of unneeded medication, according to the release.

The effort is aimed at helping people get rid of leftover pills in response to the growing opioid epidemic, according to the company.

Google teamed with the Drug Enforcement Agency, the U.S. Department of Health and Services, CVS, Walgreens and state governments for the locations, according to the release.

Ed Simcox, Health and Human Services chief technology officer, in the release stated, "By bringing opioid disposal site information to Google Maps, Americans are only a search away from helping to address the opioid crisis. This type of consumer empowerment— providing easily accessible data — is the kind of innovation needed to improve health care."

©2019 the Daily Camera (Boulder, Colo.). by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.