Syringe Services Programs
Syringe Services Programs (SSPs) are harm reduction programs that provide access for people who use substances to receive sterile syringes and allows for the safe disposal of used syringes, along with overdose prevention education, preventive supplies such as naloxone and fentanyl test strips (where legal), screening and assessment, and referral to treatment and other supportive services. 1Evidence shows that SSPs increase an individual’s likelihood to access substance use disorder treatment and recovery, reduces overdose, and reduces infectious disease transmission.2Laws pertaining to SSPs vary among states and justice practitioners are encouraged to consult their state laws to learn more.
References
- 1LAPPA. (February 2022). Syringe Service Programs: Legislative Analysis and Public Affairs. Retrieved from: http://legislativeanalysis.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Syringe-Services-Programs.pdf
- 2Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US); Office of the Surgeon General (US). Facing Addiction in America: The Surgeon General's Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health [Internet]. Washington (DC): US Department of Health and Human Services; 2016 Nov. CHAPTER 7, VISION FOR THE FUTURE: A PUBLIC HEALTH APPROACH. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK424861/