Take care of the patient: Pharmacists should advocate for overdose prevention centers as harm reduction

Abstract

Overdose prevention centers (OPCs) are places where people can bring previously obtained substances to use under the supervision of trained health care professionals who are prepared to intervene in the event of an overdose. Health care professionals, counselors, and peer support provide services including naloxone distribution, provision of sterile injection equipment, counseling services, referrals to necessary providers, and above all a safe and compassionate space for people to get the care they need. This is a method of harm reduction that has been used worldwide for decades and is now gaining traction in the United States. Pharmacists play a vital role in harm reduction for patients, and they should support the legalization and establishment of OPCs across the country to extend this essential service. A compelling body of evidence shows that OPCs reduce overdose deaths, emergency department visits for overdoses and wounds relating to injection drug use, and emergency medical service utilization in the area surrounding the centers. They also reduce drug use and discarded hazardous drug paraphernalia in public areas. OPCs also provide wrap-around services that aid in the holistic care of the person, including referrals to inpatient substance use treatment, detoxification, primary care, transportation, and housing. It is the responsibility of pharmacists to advocate for the needs of patients, and OPCs will provide an effective avenue for pharmacists to deliver counseling and medication management services as part of care of the individual.