Last Updated on November 1, 2024 by Brenda

Listen Here Helpful Harm Reduction Practices

This Episode of Health IQ Podcast aimed to clarify what harm reduction is and why it’s an essential approach in public health with Quay County Public Health Office Manager Rickie Eslick.  We often hear about the negative issues around Harm Reductions and forget that almost every one of us participates in harm reduction every day when we brush our teeth, wear sunscreen or glasses and where a seat belt.  All of these help protect us when we do activities like eating candy, being out in the sun, and riding in a vehicle at high rates of speed.

Harm reduction refers to strategies and interventions aimed at reducing the negative consequences associated with drug use. Rather than focusing solely on preventing drug use, harm reduction prioritizes the health and well-being of individuals who use drugs, providing them with tools and resources to minimize risks to their health.

The Quay County Health Office provides Confidential Support: Ensuring all information is kept confidential to foster a safe environment.  This includes allowing people to enter from the back of the building during the hours that harm reduction is offered.   They focus on Risk Reduction and Health Promotion: Preventing the reuse of needles, thereby reducing the transmission of diseases such as hepatitis and HIV and Providing Narcan (naloxone) to reverse opioid overdoses, a critical life-saving measure.

Harm Reduction Services Provided

• Syringe Exchange Program: This program helps reduce the harm from reusing needles by providing clean syringes and collecting used ones.  They provide sharps containers in a variety of sizes.  The drop box is located behind their building and can be accessed all the time.  Please make sure needles are in a ridged container, so they are not harmed emptying the box.  For those that smoke instead, they offer smoking supplies to reduce the risk of spreading diseases.
• Syringe Exchange and Needle Drop Off for people who are taking insulin or other medications that require shots.
• HIV and Syphilis Testing: Quick and confidential testing to help individuals know their status and seek treatment if necessary.  For those that come back for results and treatment, gift cards are available.
• Free Condoms: Available to anyone, no questions asked. They are located in sacks in the lobby of their office.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Helps individuals decrease opioid use or get off opioids entirely.  This a new service and Rickie can also offer it via telehealth.
• Fentanyl and Xylazine Test Strips: Allows users to test their substances for these potentially deadly additives. 

How to Access Harm Reduction Services

Office Locations and Hours: The main office is at 310 South Second, Tucumcari, open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. Harm reduction services are specifically available on Thursdays from 1 PM to 4 PM. Fort Sumner office offers services every third Tuesday of the month from 10 AM to 3 PM.

Process: Upon arrival, clients undergo an initial consultation to determine their needs. They receive a card with a code (no names used) for future exchanges.  They sign a confidentially agreement and HIPPA form.  For privacy, clients can use the back door facing the alley. 

If you need services at a different time, you may call and set up an appointment. 

Office Address: 310 South Second, Tucumcari

Phone Number: (575) 461-2610

Additional Resources

• Narcan is available at all local pharmacies without a prescription.  It is free for those on Medicaid.
• Dose of Reality: A website offering information on harm reduction and resources available across New Mexico.  Htps://doseofreality.com  505-270-5943
• Never Use Alone: A critical resource encouraging individuals to use drugs with someone who can help in case of an overdose.  https://neverusealone.com or 1-877-696-1996
• New Mexico Crisis Line: Provides crisis support and information on harm reduction services.  1-855-NMCRISIS or Dial 988