Harm Reduction

What is harm reduction?

“Harm reduction is a set of practical strategies and ideas aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with drug use.” National Harm Reduction Coalition

Such strategies include evidence-based solutions to address and prevent future epidemics related to drug use, such as naloxone distribution and syringe exchange.

How does it benefit the community?

  • Cost savings – harm reduction significantly saves communities financially when compared with the lifetime cost of antiretroviral treatment of infectious disease spread through shared needles 
  • Spread of disease – harm reduction reduces risky behaviors that contribute to the spread of infectious diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis
  • Treatment referral and initiation – participants in a harm reduction program are 5 times more likely to enter an addiction treatment program
  • Overdose prevention – harm reduction programs provide access to overdose reversal medication naloxone (NARCAN®)
  • Community safety and contamination prevention – harm reduction programs provide a safe  method of disposal of injection equipment reducing community contact

Where can I access a harm reduction program?

Owen County
Mon – Wed 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (closed 12-1 p.m.) 
Thur 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. (closed 12-1 p.m.) 
Fri 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 
Walk-ins Welcome Mon-Fri; 
Anonymous
Call 502-484-5736 for more information

Pendleton County Health Center
Mon – Thur 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.  
Fri – 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Walk-ins welcome (Call for availability during other operating hours)
Anonymous
Call 859-654-6985 for more information

Test strips are available at the Owen and Pendleton County health centers.

Other Health Center Services

Child Safety Seats

Immunizations

WIC 

 

 

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