• Needle Exchange Programs and Safe Injection Sites

    The AAFP supports effective harm reduction strategies to prevent the spread of HIV, Hepatitis C, and Hepatitis B; reduce the risk of death from opioid overdose; and engage individuals in treatment for substance use disorders. Needle exchange programs and safe injection sites reduce the transmission of disease, do not increase the rate of substance use, and increase the likelihood that individuals will enter drug treatment programs. Such strategies may also provide additional health and preventive services to vulnerable and high risk populations. Physicians should be knowledgeable about their states' statutes regarding such harm reduction strategies. (July 2016 BOD) (2019 COD)