Harm Reduction Applied: Syringe Exchange Programs (SEP) Examining the history, ideology, controversy, efficacy and application of SEPs

Abstract

Drug use is not a simple topic. Within this one topic there are layers of historical perceptions and misperceptions, political opinions, social stigmas, public health aspects and potential clinical relevance all combined in one. Therefore, to examine just one facet requires isolating and attempting to approach the topic from a clear unbiased position. This paper will focus in on the harm reduction approach to drug use by examining its history, its ideology, its controversy, its efficacy and its application as seen within Syringe Exchange Programs (SEP). Specific application and community impact will be examined from the Injection Drug User Health Alliance (IDUHA) July 2014 Survey of Washington Heights Community Outreach and Resources, Needle Exchange and Harm Reduction (CORNER) Project (WHCP), a nonprofit syringe exchange program based in Washington Heights, NY.