What is Harm Reduction?
“Little Victories: Lexington, Kentucky”
A short documentary film by Katherine Tackett that puts a human face on the opioid crisis in the community.
To find treatment
centers
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What is it?
A set of practical strategies and ideas aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with drug use.
What is a Harm Reduction Syringe Service Program (HRSSP)?
HRSSPs are community-based programs that provide access to sterile needles and syringes, safe disposal of used syringes, and other comprehensive harm reduction services.
Harm Reduction Syringe Service Program (HRSSP) Principles
A commitment to respecting the human rights of people who use drugs
A commitment to practices that are based on scientific evidence
A commitment to social justice and collaborating with community partners
A commitment to reducing the impact of stigma related to drug use
A commitment to encourage participant involvement on the path to recovery
What can a HRSSP do?
Infectious disease testing (HIV and Hepatitis C)
Referral for other clinical services such as STD testing
Referral to substance use treatment
Referral to medical care, mental health services, and other support services
Referral to community agencies to assist with basic needs (e.g. food and shelter)
Vaccines for diseases like Hepatitis A
Access to Narcan
The Mercer County Health Department’s Harm Reduction Syringe Exchange Program (HRSEP)
Harm Reduction Syringe Exchange Program (HRSEP) has been modeled after successful programs in Kentucky and according to guidance provided by the Kentucky Department for Public Health as well as by Senate Bill 192 as enacted by the Kentucky General Assembly in 2015.
The program is open to anyone who uses injection drugs.
Exchange of syringes and rapid HIV testing will be provided anonymously. Other services like repeat HIV testing, testing for Hep C, STD’s and pregnancy, as well as immunizations, must be done confidentially.
Syringes and anonymous HIV testing will be provided free of charge. Clinical services beyond the exchange of syringes and the rapid HIV test may be billed per regular sliding scale fee or to a third party if participant is enrolled. No participant will be turned away for inability to pay.
All participants are required to agree to a list of Participants Rights and Responsibilities. Items covered by this list include safe disposal of contaminated equipment, and refraining from drug use on Health Department property. Violations can result in dismissal from the program.
Public Health Nurses, with training in blood-borne diseases, STD’s etc., will provide anonymous services and confidential services according to protocols approved by the Kentucky Department for Public Health.