Risk Reduction and Overdose Prevention

The Risk Reduction and Overdose Prevention Program operates under the philosophy of meeting drug users “where they are at” by focusing on safer drug use, while neither condoning not condemning the use of illegal substances. The program goal is to reduce the negative health consequences associated with drug use, particularly HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, and TB. The Program utilizes a range of strategies to keep users engaged in the program, such as safe injection education, needle exchange, and overdose prevention education using Nasal Narcan. 

Addicts Health Opportunity Prevention Education (AHOPE)

The AHOPE Program (Addicts Health Opportunity Prevention Education) provides education, training, and safety supplies to active users to reduce the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C infection and to prevent fatal and nonfatal overdose. In addition, AHOPE provides referrals to substance abuse treatment programs. AHOPE serves several Boston neighborhoods through mobile van services, street outreach, and home visits. The AHOPE van schedule and Client Manual are available in the Documents section below.

Nasal Narcan Pilot Program

AHOPE's innovative work and success with pilot programs, such as the Needle Exchange Van and a pilot Opioid Overdose Prevention Program using Narcan in Boston have provided models and impetus for statewide interventions. AHOPE is now the Boston site for the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Opioid Overdose Prevention and Reversal Project. The Project trains opioid users and their families on how to prevent, recognize, and intervene during an opioid overdose. The training covers the importance of calling 911, how to perform rescue breathing, the administration of nasal Narcan, and instructions for after-Narcan care. The Project also offers counseling and referrals to substance abuse treatment for all participants who are misusing opioids.  For more information about this project, please call 1-800-327-5050.

Services Provided:

• Free, legal, anonymous needle exchange
  
• Opioid overdose prevention and reversal training using Nasal Narcan
  
• Overdose risk factor and prevention education
  
• Referrals to substance abuse treatment through the Resource and Referral Center, with priority admission to methadone treatment and detoxification services.
  
• Onsite HIV testing (scheduled days)

Population Served

The program serves residents of Boston, particularly injection drug and opioid users. Families, friends, and healthcare providers may also contact AHOPE to learn about harm reduction and overdose prevention strategies for active users.

Want to Make a Referral or In Need of Our Services?

Please call 1-800-383-2437 to access the van schedule or receive additional information.