Harm Reduction in West Virginia: Do Needle Exchange Programs Reduce Disease and Decrease Costs?

Authors

Katie Duty, Marshall University
Amber Graves, Marshall University
Anthony Uriate, Marshall University
Stacie Deslich, Marshall University
Alberto Coustasse, Marshall UniversityFollow
Thomas Norton, Marshall UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-24-2023

Abstract

Needle Exchange Programs (NEP)s were created to help users exchange used needles for new sterile ones and become aware of treatment and rehabilitation options. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of NEPs and their impact on reducing HIV and Hepatitis C infections in West Virginia and decreasing health care costs for the community. Based on studies conducted on the past implementation of needle exchange programs, it is suggested that there has been evidence that closing these programs can have a broad societal impact on the spread of HIV and hepatitis C and the associated costs. In addition, the community consequences of closing one extensive SNP in Charleston, West Virginia, were reported.

Comments

This is the authors’ manuscript of a paper presented at MBBA International. https://mbaainternational.org/. Copyright © 2023 The Authors. All rights reserved.

Recommended Citation

Duty, K., Graves, A., Uriate, A., Deslich, S., Norton, T., Coustasse, A. (2023, March 24). Harm Reduction in west Virginia: Do Needle Exchange Programs Reduce Disease and Decrease Costs? Presented at MBAA International, Chicago, IL.