Abstract
BackgroundApproximately one-third of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome cases in the United States are associated with the practice of sharing of injection equipment and are preventable through the once-only use of syringes, needles and other injection equipment.DiscussionSterile syringes may be obtained legally by 4 methods depending on the state. They may be purchased over the counter, prescribed, obtained at syringe exchange programs or furnished by authorized agencies. Each of these avenues has advantages and disadvantages; therefore, legal access through all means is the most likely way to promote the use of sterile syringes.SummaryBy assisting illicit drug injectors to obtain sterile syringes the primary care provider is able to reduce the incidence of blood borne infections, and educate patients about safe syringe disposal. The provider is also able to initiate discussion about drug use in a nonjudgmental manner and to offer care to patients who are not yet ready to consider drug treatment.
Highlights
One-third of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome cases in the United States are associated with the practice of sharing of injection equipment and are preventable through the once-only use of syringes, needles and other injection equipment
Summary: By assisting illicit drug injectors to obtain sterile syringes the primary care provider is able to reduce the incidence of blood borne infections, and educate patients about safe syringe disposal
One-third of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome cases in the United States are associated with the practice of sharing of injection equipment [1]
Summary
Syringe Prescription The American Medical Association endorsed prescription of syringes by physicians through a policy adopted at its Annual Meeting held in June 2000:. The Project on Harm Reduction concludes that is provision of sterile syringes to drug users ethical, and that "physicians treating patients who inject drugs are, at least in the absence of legal limits, obliged by their own professional standards to consider providing this care to patients who need it." [13]. All primary care providers should be aware of the resources that are available for the provision of syringes and their proper disposal in their communities Those treating significant numbers of injection drug users may wish to become active in promoting additional resources, and advocate for syringe availability in areas with limited access. Both economic benefits and enhanced public health will be realized
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