This report provides a comprehensive review of recent research about the effects of the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) on substance use and people who use drugs (PWUD) as well as information from key informant interviews with 21 staff members from harm reduction organizations in the United States about the experiences of PWUD and their service providers during this pandemic. Their findings suggest that the PHE had led to:
1. Increased health and social harms to PWUD
2 Significant disruptions to harm reduction services and operations, and
3. Innovative adaptations by these organizations to continue to meet the needs of their clients.
The report also provides examples of promising adaptations and innovations that may be considered for replication as well as links to resources and tools related to COVID-19, substance use, and harm reduction.
More information about the project and a link to the webinar on Wellness Strategies for Harm Reduction Providers During the COVID-10 Pandemic can be found at the National Council’s website: https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/covid-19-pandemic-impact-on-harm-reduction-services-an-environmental-scan/
Funding Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
COVID-19 Pandemic Impact on Harm Reduction Services: An Environmental Scan
A report on the effect of the COVID-19 public health emergency on harm reduction organizations and people who use drugs from the National Council for Behavioral Health