Pubdate: Sat, 04 Jun 2005
Source: High Point Enterprise (NC)
Copyright: 2005 High Point Enterprise
Contact:  http://www.hpe.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/576
Author: David Nivens
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?143 (Hepatitis)

NEEDLE PROGRAM GETS NOD

GUILFORD COUNTY - Greensboro is in line to become one of three proposed 
pilot sites for a state-sponsored syringe exchange program for drug abusers.

The Guilford County Board of Commissioners endorsed Thurs day on a 6-4 vote 
the program that would allow intravenous drug users to exchange their 
paraphernalia for sterile syringes.

Many physicians nationwide support the programs and point to good results 
in reducing the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C.

Dr. John Campbell of Greensboro cares for 600 HIV patients in his practice.

Factbox links to this "This is a problem I see every day," Campbell told 
commissioners. "One third of HIV cases come from drug use. This program is 
not just for addicts. It also helps stop the spread of these diseases to 
the community."

The Guilford County Board of Health voted 8-1 last month to endorse HB 411 
and to create a pilot site if the General Assembly pass es the bill 
allowing the needle ex changes. HB 411 would allow public health agencies 
to legally sponsor syringe exchange programs only for community service 
groups. Several Democratic commissioners said an exchange program would 
reduce county health-care costs.

"We need to be a leader here," said Chairman Bruce Davis, a High Point 
Democrat.

Sheriff BJ Barnes, an exchange advocate, said addicts would not be punished 
for carrying clean syringes. "If they have a dirty needle or are caught 
with drugs on them, they will go to jail," Barnes said.

"I don't condone drug use. This makes it safer for my officers when they 
deal with drug abusers who would have a chance to carry a clean syringe."

Although the programs combine counseling along with treatment, critics say 
the state should put more money into drug education and rehabilitation 
services.

"The state should educate people not to use drugs," said Republican 
Commissioner Trudy Wade.

"I think the county would be supporting illegal (drug) activity," said 
Republican Commissioner Mike Winstead.