For Harm Reduction services in WNC, please click below:
Buncombe County Health Department Syringe Services Program
Western North Carolina AIDS Project
To find a Syringe Services Program (SSP) in your area, click here.
For more information about Syringe Services Programs (SSPs) and Harm Reduction, please click the links below:
The 911 Good Samaritan/Access to Naloxone bill allows for a standing order distribution, meaning that medical practitioners can dispense naloxone without the provider present. Known as SB20, the 2013 law lifts the fear of calling for medical assistance in the event of a drug overdose. Under SB20, witnesses and victims of an overdose have limited criminal immunity from prosecution for small amounts of most drugs and paraphernalia that may be found as a result of calling for help. The immunity also applies to underage drinkers who seek help for alcohol poisoning and the caller must give their real name and stay with the victim.
As of August 1, 2015, a person who seeks medical assistance for someone experiencing a drug overdose cannot be considered in violation of a condition of parole, probation, or post-release, even if that person was arrested. The victim is also protected. The caller must provide his/her name to 911 or law enforcement to qualify for the immunity.