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Safe Syringe Initiative
The Orange County Health Department collects used syringes and provides free clean needles to individuals who request them. We do not accept needles from commercial or medical offices.
Frequently asked questions about safe syringe exchange programs
Q: How do I return used syringes?
A: You can drop off syringes at either of our clinics. You will see a sign pointing to the drop off location.
Q: Do you collect private information on people who drop off or ask for syringes or needles?
A: No. Anyone who drops off or requests syringes will receive them, no questions asked.
Q: Do I have to formally enroll in a program to get free needles or syringes?
A: No. Just come to one of our clinics and ask for them at our front desk.
Q: Do you give away syringes?
A: Yes. We have clean free syringes at the front desk window of both medical clinics. We also keep syringe kits in the clinic for our regular patients. It is safe to ask your provider for a kit.
Q: What is in a safe syringe kit?
A: Each kit contains 10 syringes and required state patient education. Some kits have FIT packs, containers where you can store used needles. You can have a kit with or without a FIT container.
Q: Do I have to return syringes to receive syringes, i.e., 1:1 syringe return?
A: No, evidence suggests this is an ineffective way to operate an exchange. We want anyone who needs a clean syringe to get one.
Q: How do I get Naloxone (Narcan)?
A: You can get free Naloxone kits and prescriptions at the both clinics. You can find out more about overdose prevention here.
Q: Did you train your staff?
A: Yes. All clinic staff received training. Front desk staff received additional OSHA training on safe handling and blood borne pathogens.
Q: What outcomes data do you track?
A: We track the data required by the state as outlined in this law: HB972. We track the number of:
- The number of syringe and naloxone kits we give away,
- The number of clients who seek referrals to mental health, substance abuse programs, and other community resources and,
- The number of syringes we collect.
Q: Did you create a new safety and security policy to include your safe syringe initiative?
A: No. We used our existing safety plan and policy. Contact the Health Department's compliance officer if you have questions about either. Email: Ashley Rawlinson at arawlinson@orangecountync.gov