KQED's Forum San Francisco Scales Back Harm Reduction Policy
Apr 9, 2025
In this discussion, Tyler TerMeer, CEO of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, promotes harm reduction strategies. Keith Humphreys, a psychiatry professor at Stanford, delves into the implications of scaling back public access to clean smoking supplies. Sydney Johnson, a KQED News reporter, reveals how these policy shifts might increase risky behaviors among drug users. They explore the complexities of addiction, the need for comprehensive treatment options, and the balance between community perceptions and evidence-based practices.
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Harm Reduction's Philosophical Shift
- Harm reduction has shifted from a broad public health strategy to solely supporting drug users' rights.
- This shift neglects treatment and disregards community harm.
Discouraging Treatment
- A New York Times reporter interviewed a harm reduction worker who discouraged a user seeking treatment.
- The worker believed quitting wasn't realistic, highlighting a de-emphasis on treatment.
Fentanyl's Impact
- Fentanyl's higher lethality necessitates a greater emphasis on treatment than past harm reduction approaches.
- While harm reduction is crucial, treatment is essential for long-term well-being.