“Politics Versus Policy”: Qualitative Insights on Stigma and Overdose Prevention Center Policymaking in the United States

Original research
par
Koehm, Kristin et al

Date de publication

2024

Géographie

USA

Langue de la ressource

English

Texte disponible en version intégrale

Non

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Non

Évalué par des pairs

Yes

L’objectif

This study sought to understand the role of stigma in the implementation and perspectives on overdose prevention centres (OPCs), as governments in the United States have been very reluctant to implement them despite being evidence-based approaches for preventing overdose and blood-borne pathogen transmission.

Constatations/points à retenir

The study found that although jurisdictions differed in their OPC policymaking experiences, stigma manifested throughout the process, from planning to authorization. Participants described OPCs as a tool for destigmatizing overdose and substance use, yet confronted institutionalized stigma and discriminatory attitudes toward people who use drugs and harm reduction from multiple sources (eg, politicians, media, and members of the public). Opposition toward OPCs and harm reduction approaches more broadly intersected with public discourse on crime, homelessness, and public disorder. 

La conception ou méthodologie de recherche

In-depth interviews were conducted from July 2022 to February 2023 with 17 advocates, legislators, service providers, and researchers involved with OPC advocacy and policymaking in Rhode Island, California, Pennsylvania, and New York.

Mots clés

Barriers and enablers
Equity
Harm reduction
Illegal drugs
Injecting drugs
Overdose
Policy/Regulatory
SCS/OPS
Stigma