Responding to a surge in overdose deaths: perspectives from US syringe services programs

Original research
by
Frost, Madeline C. et al

Release Date

2022

Geography

USA

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

Yes

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Yes

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

This study examined the perspectives of leadership and staff from a geographically diverse sample of US syringe services programs (SSPs) on factors contributing to the overdose surge, their organization’s response, and ongoing barriers to preventing overdose death.

Findings/Key points

SSPs remain essential in preventing overdose deaths amid record numbers likely driven by increased fentanyl use and COVID-19-related impacts. These findings can inform efforts to support SSPs in this work. In the face of ongoing barriers, support for SSPs—including increased resources, political support, and community partnership—is urgently needed to address the worsening overdose crisis.

Design/methods

Semi-structured interviews

Keywords

Harm reduction
Wrap-around services
Social services
Illegal drugs
SCS/OPS