Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Officials Unveil Plan for Lexington Needle Exchange Program

Lexington health officials have unveiled a preliminary plan for a needle-exchange program to be launched in the city.

The Lexington-Fayette County Board of Health announced Wednesday it plans to offer intravenous drug users clean needles at the health department building on Newtown Pike.

A state law passed in March allows state health departments and local governments to create needle-exchange programs to stem Kentucky's growing rates of hepatitis and HIV.

Health commissioner Dr. Rice Leach says the preliminary plan is being reviewed by law enforcement, treatment centers and city officials. The officials will hold a June 19 meeting to discuss the program.

According to the plan, people seeking needles would enter the building through a back door to protect privacy. Users would be able to receive needles anonymously.

Related Content