A Boston nonprofit plans to open a safe space for heroin users
A Boston nonprofit wants to try something new to fight the opiate epidemic in the state.
The Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program plans to open a room run along the stretch of Mass. Ave. known as methadone mile. Heroin users who are already high could go to the space and be monitored by medical personnel, according to a report by WBUR.
Dr. Jessie Gaeta, the nonprofit’s chief medical officer, told WBUR that too many people are dying in alleys, cars, and public restrooms alone.
“It’s not a place where people would be injecting,’’ Gaeta said. “[It would be] a place where people would come if they’re high and they need a safe place to be that’s not a street corner or not a bathroom by themselves, where they’re at high risk of dying if they do overdose.’’
A nurse and street outreach worker would check the vitals and general health of the 10 users in the room.
“If you overdose, we’re going to be able to respond immediately, save your life,’’ Gaeta said. “We’re going to talk to you about treatment options, we’re going to offer it, ideally, on demand, like the moment you’re interested in methadone maintenance or Suboxone or a detox program, we’re going to work like heck to get you in that day.’’
The nonprofit plans to open the room, located at the corner of Mass. Ave and Albany Street, early next year but are still seeking funding for the “safe space.’’
Read the full WBUR report here.
To comment, please create a screen name in your profile
To comment, please verify your email address
Conversation
This discussion has ended. Please join elsewhere on Boston.com