The Syringe Exchange Program San Antonio (SEPSA) is a government-backed program that works to help prevent the spread of bloodborne infectious diseases like HIV and Hepatitis B, C for people who inject drugs in Bexar County. SEPSA’s mission is to decrease the rate of transmission of HIV, prevent opioid overdose, provide a method of safe disposal, and reduce the public’s exposure to dirty needles across the city. The practices exercised by this program aims to reduce the negative consequences of drug use, not necessarily the cessation of negative consequences. Promotion of health individuals and communities by initiating better practices for safer use is key.

SEPSA accomplishes this mission by providing clean, unused needles in exchange for dirty needles. The site of exchange is SEPSA’s mobile van that makes various stops across the city at different times. These times can be found here. The van not only exchanges needles, but it provides education on the importance of safety in the usage of needles. The van will also provide multiple resources, such as support groups, medical help, and more, for individuals seeking aid. Individuals overseeing the van will be HIPAA trained, naloxone trained, and educated on the importance of kindness and sensitivity for drug users.

By using sterile needles and syringes people who inject drugs can substantially reduce their risk of getting and transmitting HIV, viral hepatitis and other blood borne infections. In many jurisdictions, persons who inject drugs can access sterile needles and syringes through the SEPSA program. Which is a community-based program that provides access to sterile needles and syringes free of cost and facilitate safe disposal of used needles and syringes. As described in the CDC and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) guidance, SEP are an effective component of a comprehensive, integrated approach to HIV prevention, Hep C and among Possession with Intent to Distribute (PWID). The program is available to all individuals who utilize drug intravenously. The van will provide cards for members of the program to show as proof of eligibility. The van will only provide needles when shown the card. This card serves as limited immunity concerning an individual’s involvement in or knowledge of certain illicit drug use violations. For more information, do not hesitate to visit our contact page to get in touch with one of our staff.