ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — One simple step. For some local hospitals – that makes a big difference in keeping dangerous medications out of the wrong hands.
All six Mission Health hospitals across western North Carolina participated in the annual “Crush the Crisis” prescription drug take back event today.
The initiative gave residents a safe and anonymous way to get rid of unused or expired medications, while raising awareness about prescription drug misuse.
“We have locations all throughout the U.S., our goal is just to help get prescription medication primarily opioids and high addictive substances out of peoples home that are not in use anymore,” said Emily Wright, who was helping with the event.
2025: MISSION HEALTH HOSPITALS COLLECT OVER 300 POUNDS OF MEDS DURING ‘CRUSH THE CRISIS’ EVENT
OCT. 24, 2026 – “Crush the Crisis” gave residents a safe and anonymous way to get rid of unused or expired medications. (Photo credit: WLOS Staff)
HCA HEALTHCARE TO INVEST $32M+ IN FACILITIES ACROSS WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
Mission Health provided the total amount of medication disposed of today at all six Mission Health hospitals and the grand total:
- Mission Hospital: 103 pounds
- Mission Hospital McDowell: 30 pounds
- Blue Ridge Regional Hospital: 65 pounds
- Transylvania Regional Hospital: 22 pounds
- Angel Medical Center: 50 pounds
- Highlands-Cashiers Hospital: 19 pounds
The HCA Healthcare North Carolina Division total came out to 289 pounds.
The event was part of a nationwide effort by HCA Healthcare, which has helped safely dispose of more than 108,000 pounds of medication since 2019, according to a Mission Health press release.
Organizers say proper disposal can help prevent accidental poisonings, misuse and theft.