Harm reduction programs are aimed at reducing overdose as well as other adverse outcomes that may come from drug use. While most policies are focused on abstinence, harm reduction works to give agency to those who are struggling with substance use disorder (SUD). This can be implemented through a spectrum of approaches such as managed, safer use.
Programs vary based on a community’s needs. There is no set definition for harm reduction or a harm reduction program. Typically the approach is to provide medications to reverse overdose, resources on treatment, and needle exchange. The National Harm Reduction Coalition does list 8 principles that are essential for harm reduction programs. These include:
Accepts that licit and illicit drug use is part of our world and chooses to not ignore or condemn harmful effects.
Recognizes that substance use is a complex situation and that some methods are safer than others.
Uses quality of individual and community life as a program criteria.
Services and resources are provided without judgement or coercion.
Program is created through giving a voice to those who use substances or have a history of substance use.
Those who use substances are the primary agents in reducing harm.
Acknowledge that social inequalities — poverty, class, racism, past trauma, and discrimination — can affect an individual’s vulnerability for substance use.
Does not minimize or ignore the harms and dangers that are associated with substance use.
In New York City a $730,000 pilot Harm Reduction Program has been created geared towards curbing overdoses. It has been reported that every 4 hours, a person in New York City dies of a drug overdose. So, in order to reach the areas that have been especially affected by overdose deaths, 10 public health harm reduction vending machines will be placed in all 5 boroughs of the city. Central Harlem, Union Square, Far Rockaway, Stapleton, and East New York have been identified as top priority neighborhoods.
Residents of New York state do currently have access to clean syringes at pharmacies throughout the state, but the harm prevention vending machines may be a more appealing option. By eliminating face-to-face interactions and being available 24/7, supplies can get to the people who need them most, where they need them, and on their schedule. Additionally, exchanging needles and providing Naloxone will be the main focus of these vending machines.
Nevada was the first state to install vending machines similar to the ones in New York’s plan. The state began using these vending machines in 2017 and saw significant success within the first year. From 2017 to 2018, approximately 23,540 clean syringes were distributed. And, nearly half of those who used the vending machines requested Naloxone.
Harm reduction services keep people safe by providing supplies to otherwise hard to reach groups of people. They service populations who can then receive the supplies they need, in a discreet manner, which helps to lower the stigma associated with getting help for a SUD.