Smyth County Health Department

201 Francis Marion Ln Marion, Virginia, 24354

276-781-7460Website Link

About

Comprehensive Harm Reduction (CHR) is a set of public health services. CHR is designed to reduce the negative impact of drug use. It helps prevent HIV, hepatitis C, other infections, overdose and death. It is intended for those who are unable to, or not ready to stop using drugs. CHR may also be called syringe services or needle exchange. Yet, CHR programs provide much more than just needles and syringes.

CHR includes: the distribution of sterile and disposal of used hypodermic needles and syringes, naloxone to reverse overdoses, education, peer support, referral to drug treatment, testing for HIV and hepatitis, and linkage to medical care and support services.