Needle Syringe Program (NSP)
The Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) aims to minimise the transmission of HIV, Hepatitis C and other blood-borne infections via the sharing of injecting equipment. The NSP is core business of the North Coast Area Health Service.
Access to the program is provided through dedicated ‘primary’ NSP outlets, ‘secondary’ outlets in all hospitals and Community Health Centres, and vending machines.
You can use the Service Directory to locate a program near you, just enter 'needle syringe program' into the 'Select a service box' and a list of locations will be displayed.
The NSP provides:
- Access to sterile injecting equipment and disposal bins
- Education/information to persons who inject drugs
- Assistance with placement into drug treatment
- Referral to testing for HIV and hepatitis
- Referral to Hepatitis B vaccinations
- Information and referral to other health, welfare, legal and community services
- Consultancy/training to the general public on safe handling of discarded sharps
The Service can also provide referral to Drug and Alcohol Counsellors, detoxification and rehabilitation services.
All services are free and confidential.