Harm reduction programs are part of a comprehensive prevention strategy through public health that aim to reduce the spread of HIV, Hepatitis C, and other sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs).

Harm reduction programs contribute to improved health by:

  • reducing the incidence of drug-related health and social harms, including the spread of sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs)
  • creating community safety through provision, exchange, distribution, and recovery of supplies for safer sex and drug use
  • promoting and facilitating referrals to primary care, addictions, mental health, and social services
  • reducing the barriers to accessing health and social services, reducing stigma and discriminations, as well as raising awareness of harm reduction principles, policies, and programs
  • reducing opioid overdose death and health-related harms

Harm Reduction Policy

Substance use practices that can lead to transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C (HCV), hepatitis B (HBV), and other harms are a critical public health issue. Harm reduction programs are part of a comprehensive prevention strategy through public health that aim to reduce the spread of HIV, hepatitis C, and other sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs).

The Harm Reduction Policy is intended to empower healthcare providers to apply harm reduction principles and strategies in their work with clients and their families. Download the Harm Reduction Policy here: Harm Reduction Policy (Saskatchewan Health Authority, 2025)

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Harm Reduction Procedure

The Harm Reduction Procedure outlines the established process for how Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) team members are to apply harm reduction principles and practices in their work with clients and their families.

A variety of approaches are used to support harm reduction efforts, including:

Download the Harm Reduction Procedure here: Harm Reduction Procedure (Saskatchewan Health Authority, 2025)

Useful Resources & Links

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