NCJ Number
165670
Journal
AIDS and Public Policy Journal Volume: 9 Issue: 2 Dated: (Summer 1994) Pages: 59-74
Date Published
1994
Length
16 pages
Annotation
The needle exchange program in New Haven, Conn. is examined with respect to the politics involved, program operation, client demographics and risk behaviors, client participation and retention, expansion to include health services, evaluation, linkage with drug treatment, impact of syringe decriminalization, and State and Federal policy.
Abstract
The program aims to prevent AIDS among injection drug users. It began in November 1990 after the State authorized and funded a demonstration needle exchange. By the end of June 1993 a total of 1,496 clients had completed baseline surveys regarding their demographics and risk behaviors. The majority were males, at least 30 years old, and black or Hispanic. Heroin and cocaine were their drugs of choice. The retention rate was 69 percent among the 981 clients who visited the program two or more times. Mobile medical services were added by means of a health van. The program's success and positive evaluation has increased local support of the program and led to policy changes in Connecticut to authorize new programs in other cities and decriminalize needle and syringe purchase and sale without a prescription. Needle exchange has also been placed on the list of policy options health officials nationally can consider. Figures, tables, and reference notes