Overdose prevention centers (OPCs) are interventions designed to reduce the potential risks of drug use, including overdose and unwanted public use. They are one way to address the current drug overdose crisis in the United States. But how should they be regulated and operated?
The Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) convened 8 focus groups comprised of over 50 OPC advocates, researchers, and practitioners, who identified several key considerations for regulating and operating OPCs.
Throughout their responses, the focus groups emphasized the need to allow flexibility for OPCs to adapt to the needs of the communities they serve. Barriers to OPC access should be eliminated or minimized, both in government regulations and within OPC operational policies.
Policymakers and potential OPC operators should refer to the considerations outlined here in order to help ensure that OPCs can best provide lifesaving services to communities in need.
Read our fact sheet: Key Considerations for Regulating Overdose Prevention Centers (OPCs)
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