Many people who use drugs are either not ready to stop using, do not perceive a need for treatment, or experience stigma-related barriers to treatment and other services. In response, the city of Boston started AHOPE (Access, Harm Reduction, Overdose Prevention, and Education) through the Boston Public Health Commission, which is located in a part of the city that has a high concentration of people who use drugs. This is a program specifically targeted towards active drug users to encourage safer drug use and decrease drug-related harms. Some of the services include:

• A syringe service program, along with safe injection supplies and education
• Free integrated HIV, Hepatitis C, and sexually transmitted infection testing, with referral to treatment
• Overdose prevention education and training and naloxone distribution
• Referrals to all types of substance use treatment, through the PAATHS program
• An innovative pilot program that does drug checking 
• Outreach via mobile van or boots on the ground that is grounded in harm reduction 

Navigating the treatment continuum as well as understanding the types of treatment available and appropriate level of care can be challenging. PAATHS (Providing Access to Addictions Treatment, Hope and Support) is co-located with AHOPE and is a one-stop shop for anyone (individuals, families, community partners, other treatment providers) looking for information about, or access to, substance use treatment services. In addition to facilitating access to treatment programs, PAATHS will discuss available treatment options and make assessments and recommendations based on the unique needs of the patient. PAATHS provides case management and helps clients find their pathway to recovery. 

More information on AHOPE can be found in the program manual here and the news article here. More information on PAATHS can be found in the presentation here.