MedPage Today October 27, 2021
— “We’re changing the way we address overdoses,” says HHS secretary
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) launched a new plan to curb drug overdoses that promises more federal backing for harm reduction techniques.
The Overdose Prevention Strategy “breaks new ground” with coordinated federal support for efforts such as needle exchanges, and distribution of test strips to check for fentanyl in street drugs. In the past, such services were generally done by grassroots groups.
“We’re changing the way we address overdoses,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, in a press release. “Our new strategy focuses on people — putting the very individuals who have struggled with addiction in positions of power. And thanks to the American Rescue Plan, we...