Syringe Services

Safe Syringe Disposal

Syringe Exchange Programs (SEPs) or Syringe Services Programs (SSPs) are community-based prevention programs that can provide a range of services, including:

• Linkage to substance use disorder treatment;
• Access to and disposal of sterile syringes and injection equipment;
• Vaccination, testing, and linkage to care and treatment for infectious diseases.

SSPs save lives, help those experiencing a substance use disorder get the support needed to regain a healthy life, and reduce the impact of drug use on the community. We can prevent and treat infections and overdose deaths through SSPs.

SSPs protect the public and first responders by facilitating the safe disposal of used needles and syringes. Providing testing, counseling, and sterile injection supplies also helps prevent outbreaks of other diseases.

Nearly thirty years of research shows that comprehensive SSPs are safe, effective, and cost-saving, do not increase illegal drug use or crime, and play an important role in reducing the transmission of viral hepatitis, HIV and other infections.

Together, we have an unprecedented opportunity to combat the nation’s opioid crisis while continuing to strengthen infectious disease prevention and treatment for communities everywhere.

Syringe Exchange became legal in Utah on May 10, 2016 and is overseen but the Utah Department of Health. 

For more information, contact: UDOH Syringe Exchange Program Phone: 801-538-6191 Email: syringeexchange@utah.gov