The Harm Reduction Program, which includes the Syringe Services Program (SSP), is an HIV, Hepatitis C, and other blood-borne infections prevention program that offers intravenous substance users risk reduction education and sterile syringes to reduce the spread of infectious diseases. The program offers a wide scope of services to include nursing services, HIV, Syphilis and Hep C testing and direct services for Hep C treatment. The Program also offers community education on behavioral health issues, outreach, and access to treatment. To become a participant of the Harm Reduction Program, all you need to do is register at our locations 925 North Burhans Blvd. Participants must be 18 years of age or older. This program is free and confidential. No identification is required for registration.
Services Update:
Washington County Health Department Division of Behavioral Health Services is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. The Syringe Services room is open 8:30 AM-4:00 PM Monday through Friday.
Harm Reduction Support Group/ Anchoring the Community:
The last Tuesday of each month the Harm Reduction Program will be offering services from 4-7 pm. During this time, we will be offering extended SSP clinic hours, syringe take back, wound care screening, peer recovery services and a support group that will include Tai Chi from 5:30-6:30 pm. For more information, please call 240-313-3310
Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law:
Annotated Code of Maryland, Criminal Procedure §1-210
Why do I need to know about this law?
If you witness a drug or alcohol medical emergency, you will be more likely to call for help and prevent someone from dying.
Does Maryland have a Good Samaritan Law?
Yes! According to Maryland Law, if you help someone in good faith who is need of medical assistance from a drug or alcohol medical emergency, you and the person you help are immune from criminal prosecution (Md.Ann. Code Art. CR 1-210).
From what am I immune?
There is immunity from criminal arrest, charge, or prosecution from the following specified offenses if the evidence for the arrest, charge or prosecution was obtained solely because of the person seeking or receiving medical assistance:
§ 5-601 Administering Dangerous Substance
§ 5-619 Possession with Intent to Use Paraphernalia
§ 5-620 Possession of Controlled Paraphernalia
§ 10-114 Minor Possession of Alcohol
§ 10-116 Obtaining Alcohol for Underage Person
§ 10-117 Furnishing Alcohol to an Underage Person
What can I do?
Spread the word about this law to former substance users, current users and friends or families of users.
Attend a naloxone training.
Visit www.washcohealth.org for more information
If you or people you know are seeking treatment, call The Washington County Health Department Behavioral Health Division at 240-313-3310.
Helpful links:
Hub City Strong Harm Reduction Facebook
