The Social Science Research Institute's Evidence-to-Impact Podcast shares an insightful new episode, titled "An Innovative Approach to Connecting Communities Through 'Health To Go' Vending Machines." In this episode, host Michael Donovan, associate director of the Evidence-to-Impact Collaborative at Penn State, is joined by Dr. Alice Zhang , family medicine physician researcher in the Penn State Health Department of Family and Community Medicine, and  Marcia Goodman-Hinnershitz , director of planning and Resource Development at the Council on Chemical Abuse.  

The Health To Go initiative uses interactive, touchscreen-enabled vending machines to provide free, anonymous, 24/7 access to essential health resources. These include naloxone, drug checking supplies, hygiene kits, sexual health items, and seasonal wellness products, alongside digital access to local treatment and community resources. Dr. Zhang explains that the idea for the program was rooted in her clinical experience and a desire to reach people who may not be able to access traditional healthcare settings. "There was always this question of what about the individuals who can't make it into the clinic," she shares. "How can we better serve them and meet their needs where they are?"  

Goodman-Hinnershitz highlights how the vending machine model offers a powerful way to reduce stigma and increase accessibility. By placing the machines in trusted, high-traffic community locations — such as emergency departments and YMCAs — Health To Go normalizes access to harm reduction and wellness tools. "People don't have to explain themselves or feel judged," she notes. "Everything is anonymous, and that sense of privacy makes a real difference for individuals who might otherwise avoid seeking help."  

Early data and community feedback show strong engagement, with thousands of items dispensed and users often accessing multiple resources in a single visit. 

The episode also explores the collaboration behind Health to Go, including partnerships between Penn State, the Council on Chemical Abuse, healthcare systems, and community coalitions. Dr. Zhang emphasizes the broader potential of the model, stating, "We're really just at the tip of the iceberg in terms of what these machines can do."  

From expanding diagnostic testing to implementing Health to Go vending machines in new communities, the conversation underscores how innovative technology, braided funding, and cross-sector partnerships can translate research into real-world impact — improving access, supporting prevention, and ultimately, saving lives. 

Listen to this episode on platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Blubrry. You can also access it on the Evidence-to-Impact website.

The Evidence-to-Impact Podcast  connects Penn State researchers, government partners and community leaders to discuss policy-relevant issues such as poverty, criminal justice, substance use and health care. By translating research insights into real-world understanding, the series aims to bridge the gap between evidence and practice. Through accessible conversations within the podcast, effective communication is tailored to diverse audiences, which empowers the public with accurate information that can influence policies, improve evidence-based approaches and support individuals affected by these challenges.   

The Evidence-to-Impact Collaborative (EIC) is a research center and information hub for the science of using social science. The aim of the EIC is to improve the data, methods and processes related to research, the dissemination of evidence, and to understand the impacts of the use of research evidence on societal well-being. A center in the Social Science Research Institute supported by the College of Health and Human Development, the EIC leverages expertise in administrative data, program evaluation and researcher-policymaker relationships for social investment optimization.