AIDS Service Organizations nation-wide are increasingly implementing Needle Exchange Programs (NEP) in order to prevent the spread of HIV and Hepatitis in injection drug users (IDUs) and their sexual partners. In Michigan, injection drug use (IDU) accounts for almost 1/3 of cases of people living with HIV or AIDS, yet statewide and local paraphernalia laws make it difficult to implement basic proven prevention programs for this population. Specific steps are needed to implement a successful NEP depending on many factors including geographic location; services provided; population being served; and local laws. Laws banning NEP make it difficult for useful information to be shared regarding start-up of such programs. Information will be shared in order to contribute to the better understanding of IDU and NEP, including barriers and benefits of such programs in challenging geographic locations. The authors will present on the necessity of Harm Reduction Programs in HIV and Hepatitis prevention programs, and will establish necessary steps to implementing a successful Needle Exchange Program. See www.r2harc.org
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1. Define Harm Reduction and articulate its relevence to HIV prevention; and 2. List five necessary steps to implementing a successful needle exchange program.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Drug Injectors
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: HIV/AIDS Resource Center
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.