URMC organized prescription drug buy-back for Rochester community

ROCHESTER, NY (WROC) – The University of Rochester Medical Center and New York State Police urged the community of Rochester to safely dispose of their prescription drugs on Saturday.

The buyout was spearheaded by URMC’s General Surgery Residency Program to reduce opioid addictions in the local community. Participants attending the buyout received information about addiction treatment services and drug disposal options.

As part of a research project, participants then received a survey on the number of medications given and their knowledge of routine disposal.

“The Department of Surgery and our residency program look forward to opportunities that will allow us to connect with the community,” said Dr. Lauren DeCaporale-Ryan. “Today’s recovery day reflects several years of important partnerships for us and an effort to systematically encourage our neighbors to remove unnecessary medication from their homes.”

URMC officials also highlighted UR Medicine pharmacies that accept unused medications, such as Strong Memorial Hospital Outpatient Pharmacy, Highland Hospital Outpatient Pharmacy, Strong Ties Pharmacy, and Highland South Wedge Pharmacy.