Harm reduction strategies save lives. These interventions are intended to prevent overdoses and reduce negative outcomes related to drug use. While states have an array of tools to support harm reduction, most harm reduction services are delivered at the community level. Therefore, the success of many state-level harm reduction initiatives rely on robust state infrastructure that bolsters and empowers local harm reduction providers.
To highlight how states are working to support community-level harm reduction approaches, NASHP developed case studies of harm reduction strategies in four geographically and politically diverse states, which you can explore in detail on our website. Regardless of a state’s public health and health care infrastructure, common strategies include:
Using Data to Target Communities in Need — Collecting and sharing data related to the drug supply and overdose rates can help state agencies and partners more effectively deploy resources and support coordinated efforts to respond to community needs.
Aligning Funding Streams — Harm reduction providers are often funded by braided funding from federal, state, and/or philanthropic sources.
Establishing Central Resource Hubs — In many states, state agencies can function as a centralized resource hub, handling purchasing and distribution of harm reduction-related resources such as naloxone, the opioid overdose reversal medication.
Building Coalitions to Support Harm Reduction — By empowering local players such as advocates, providers, and private entities with data and resources, individuals can help raise awareness about the specific resource needs of their community.
Supporting Coordination across Harm Reduction Service Providers — By facilitating connections among providers working in different service, population, or geographic areas, a state can develop a roadmap for service offerings and connect individuals with specific care or resources along the continuum of harm reduction interventions.
Engaging People with Lived and Living Experience in Decision-Making Processes and Maintaining Bidirectional Communication with Impacted Communities — Collaborating with people with lived and living experience can assist in the development of processes and services that more closely meet the needs of individuals impacted by the opioid epidemic and larger overdose crisis.
Providing Technical Assistance and Resources for Providers — Many states offer a range of technical assistance or resources for harm reduction providers.
Learn More about How States Are Implementing these Strategies through NASHP’s Harm Reduction Case Studies
Harm reduction strategies are wide ranging, and states will need to develop local approaches that meet their own unique needs and environments. State officials who are considering next steps in their harm reduction efforts can explore how Georgia, Maryland, Utah, and Vermont support harm reduction by reading our case studies.
Acknowledgments
NASHP would like to thank the Foundation for Opioid Response Efforts for its continued support in NASHP’s ongoing work to assist state leaders in opioid settlement spending and planning.
