Definition
Story Behind the Curve
The increase in substance use, including opioid use, has resulted in subsequent increases in injection drug use. This has also resulted in increased overdose deaths and viral infections and threatened progress toward success with HIV prevention. Many who use syringes hide their drug of choice and transmission of use due to the heightened stigma associated with IDU use, which increases their risk for many health disparities.
Partners
The Hoke County Health Department administers the Hoke Syringe Service Program and partners closely with Tia Hart Community Recovery Program in providing the program's services. Funding is provided by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and recently received funding support from the Hoke County Commissioners through Opioid Settlement Funding.
What Works
The program has demonstrated that meeting the clients where they are and taking time to foster relationships works. The program has a fixed site at the Tia Hart Community Recovery Center; however, mobile services are also provided that will deliver anywhere within the Hoke County boundaries. Additionally, the program has succeeded in serving as a provider for the syringe exchange, other needed services, and support of care coordination opportunities.