Harm Reduction

Harm Reduction is a set of practical strategies and ideas aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with drug use.

Testing for HIV and Hepatitis C

In addition to STI testing in the Family Planning Clinic, we also test for communicable blood-borne pathogens such as Hep C and HIV. Certain methods of drug use put people at higher risk of contracting these infections, so regular testing is essential to catch new infections and begin treatment early. Our Rapid HIV tests give preliminary results in 1 minute while our Rapid Hep C test takes 20 minutes. If there is a positive result, a 2nd confirmatory test is recommended. We also provide Hepatitis C treatment in our clinic which saves you the hassle of making an appointment at a different clinic.

Syringe Services Program

Our Syringe Services Program (SSP) is a community-based harm reduction program that provides a range of services, including access to and disposal of syringes, wound care supplies, overdose prevention education, linkage to substance use disorder treatment, HIV and HCV testing, and linkage to care and treatment for infectious diseases. Our SSP protects the public and first responders by facilitating the safe disposal of used needles and syringes. Providing testing, counseling, and sterile injection supplies can reduce the transmission of blood-borne diseases.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, and Prevention, nearly 30 years of research show that comprehensive SSPs are safe, effective, and cost-saving; they do not increase illegal drug use or crime and play an important role in reducing the transmission of viral hepatitis, HIV, and other infections.

Click here to visit the CDC website to learn more about Syringe Services Programs.

SAMHSA has additional information on Harm Reduction programs. 

Naloxone AKA Narcan

Naloxone is a medication used to reverse opioid overdose; it's called an opioid antagonist. Naloxone can be used in emergency situations when a person is experiencing an overdose from opioids, e.g., heroin, fentanyl, hydrocodone, oxycodone, morphine, and codeine. Naloxone can be administered in a variety of ways, including injection into the muscle, or sprayed into the nose. The most common form of Naloxone currently used is Narcan, which is a nasal spray.

Narcan Training Opportunities

If you are interested in your business or organization being trained in the proper administration of Narcan, please click: here. Anyone can be trained to use Narcan in a potential overdose situation. For additional information about Narcan and its use, check out the links below!

narcan.com

Centers for Disease Control

Montana DPHHS