Tester pushes better treatment for allergic reactions at school

Senator’s bipartisan bill would save lives in rural communities

(U.S. SENATE) – Senator Jon Tester is making it easier for rural Montana schools to treat students who experience life-threatening allergic reactions.

Some rural Montana school districts currently do not have enough nurses to treat students quickly, making it critical that teachers are able to treat allergic reactions. 
                                              
Tester is cosponsoring a bipartisan bill that provides grants to states like Montana that allow non-medical staff members to treat students.  The bill specifically assists schools that store syringes of epinephrine, a hormone used to treat allergic shock, and allows teachers to use syringes to treat victims of life-threatening allergic reactions.

“In rural America, we need to look at responsible, common sense ways to treat all folks who need immediate medical attention,” said Tester, a former elementary school teacher.  “Properly training and equipping teachers will save lives through quick treatment, and it just makes sense for rural communities.”

Tester recently received the 2012 National Rural Health Association’s Rural Health Award in appreciation for his role in championing rural health.

Tester’s bipartisan School Access to Emergency Epinephrine Act is available online HERE.

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