What happens at a needle exchange?

Needle exchange programs provide new, sterile syringes and clean injection equipment in exchange for used, contaminated syringes. They also get drug users into drug treatment and health care.

What is needle exchange pharmacy?

Needle Exchanges are open access, low threshold services which operate during a drug treatment agencies and pharmacy’s normal opening hours. It is recognised that not all drug and or alcohol users are in a position to lead drug free lives, a harm reduction approach is therefore applied.

Are needle exchanges legal in the US?

At the federal level, needle exchanges aren’t banned. But until as recently as 2016 federal dollars were not allowed to go to such programs.

Can I buy needles over-the-counter?

M.G.L. c. 94C, § 27 authorizes pharmacies to sell hypodermic syringes and needles to any person, of any age, without a prescription, and without identification.

Where can I find a needle exchange?

The North American Syringe Exchange Network (NASEN) provides a directory of needle exchange programs where users can enter a zip code, city, or state to find their nearest site. 8 You can also visit your state’s or county’s public health or health department website for further information.

What are the benefits of needle exchange programs?

Many intravenous drug users are at high risk of contracting numerous bloodborne infections, including HIV and hepatitis viruses. 1 Needle exchange programs can help prevent the spread of these diseases by providing clean needles and disposing of used ones. Users can also get other services at these programs, such as medical care and screenings.

How many syringe exchange programs are there in the US?

Some states have many programs (Kentucky has 23), while some have very few (Hawaii has 1). 7 The North American Syringe Exchange Network (NASEN) provides a directory of needle exchange programs where users can enter a zip code, city, or state to find their nearest site. 8

Can federal funding be used for needle exchange programs?

However, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2016 permits local communities to use federal funding for other aspects of needle exchange programs.3 They must request permission for such funding, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will review each state or local community’s level of need. 1