Syringe access in MassachusettsSyringe access in Massachusetts

Kevin Cranston, MDivKevin Cranston, MDivDirector, Bureau of Infectious DiseaseDirector, Bureau of Infectious Disease

Massachusetts Department of Public HealthMassachusetts Department of Public Health

Authorizing LegislationAuthorizing Legislation

• M. G. L. c. 94c §§27-27A

• Permits over-the-counter sales of syringes to persons 18 and older

• Decriminalizes the possession of needles and syringes

• Required a statewide syringe disposal plan and distribution of information on disposal to purchasers

Supporting structures and processesSupporting structures and processes

• Development of syringe disposal fact sheet (all purchasers) and brochures (for IDUs)

• Revised NEP enrollment card citing new statute and rights

• Statewide syringe disposal kiosk placement and other syringe disposal plans at local level

Kiosk and existing sharps disposal Kiosk and existing sharps disposal sites, Massachusettssites, Massachusetts

ImpactImpact

• Some localized resistance from pharmacists, price increases and added scrutiny of identification of perceived addicts

• Board of Registration in Pharmacy letter to pharmacists clarifying law and process

• Drop-off in utilization of NEPs, esp. out-of-area clients

• Consideration of adding syringe distribution to non-NEP IDU-serving prevention programs