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.
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- Published: April 16, 2021
- Page reviewed/updated: July 19, 2023
