The routine operations of a syringe exchange
The following is a monthly report from a syringe exchange in a Pennsylvania city roughly comparable in size to Lancaster. It lists the variety of services administered to protect the individual and the public. It also describes efforts to refer clients for guidance and treatment.
November 2009 Report
Total contacts: 326
Twenty-one participants were tested for HIV in November.
Total IDU (Injecting Drug User) contacts: 273
Total unduplicated IDU contacts: 221
Syringes: 2580
Condoms distributed: Male- 2272, Female-33, Dental Dams-34; Finger Cots-40
Demographics of unduplicated IDU contacts:
African American male: 32
White Male: 42
Latino: 52
African American female: 24
White female: 33
Latina: 38
We completed 278 referrals for various services.
This month, as a result of our 86 total D&A referrals, fourteen participants entered into drug treatment facilities. This indicates those of whom we are aware; there may be additional entries of which we are not aware.
Due to shortage of funding, only a small fraction of heroin addicts are served. Of special significance, when addicts go untested, they inadvertently may spread HIV/AIDS throughout the general population. Yes, that means our families!
NewsLanc is not aware of any efforts being made by Lancaster General Hospital, the Urban League, or others to provide for the continuation of the Lancaster Syringe Exchange or provide for an alternate service after the end of this month when the exchange’s funding ceases.
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