In response to expressed concerns, the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department is initiating new guidelines for its harm reduction program, particularly the syringe exchange.
Beginning with the harm reduction clinic scheduled Thursday, March 8, a client must present in-person to receive syringes. Previously, well-established clients were able to pick up syringes for other clients.
Clients will be required to provide identification before obtaining syringes. KCHD is modeling its identification requirements on those included in West Virginia’s voter identification statute.
These are the first changes made in response to a program review ordered by the Kanawha-Charleston Board of Health.