Open Aid Alliance

SYRINGE SERVICE PROGRAM AND "UNCOVERY" TREATMENT CENTER:The syringe service program is a community-based public health approach to prevent disease transmission, prevent overdose, and improve overall health outcomes for people who use drugs. The program includes sterile injection equipment, trains people to respond to overdose and encourages the proper disposal of used syringes. The syringe service program is a critical linkage to behavorial health, housing and medical care for people who use injection drugs. This program operates fixedlocations in Missoula and Polson and supports multiple programs across Montana. Peer support is a mutual aid support program where people connect based on shared lived experience. Our peer support program is focused on people experiencing challenges associated with substanceabuse and housing insecurity. UNCOVERY is a state approved substance use disorder treatment center providing outpatient services in a harmreduction framework including case management individuals. This allows us to meet the behavioral health needs of some of our communitys most vulnerable individuals.

TESTING AND PREVENTION:In 2024, this program identified 0 probable cases of HIV after testing366 individuals. We performed 174 HCV (Hepatitis C) tests, screened 119 individuals for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, and tested 207 people for syphilis. We identified and referred to treatment 2 high-risk individuals for syphilis treatment immediately. Rates of syphilis in Montana are currently at a 60-year high. We provide low-cost screening for sexually transmitted diseases at multiple locations and community events across Montana.

CONSULTING AND CAPACITY:Other activities to meet our mission.