Harm reduction workforce, behavioral health, and service delivery in the USA: a cross-sectional study
This article highlights research on the composition and practices within the harm reduction workforce, conducted by our partners at the University of North Carolina's Behavioral Health Workforce Research Center. The study explored the types of workers in harm reduction organizations, the behavioral health services they provide, and the processes for referrals. Results showed that the harm reduction workforce is primarily composed of community health/peer specialists, with behavioral health services often being reliant on peers. The study also found that organizations offering behavioral health services were significantly more likely to have formal referral processes and follow-up protocols. These findings underscore the importance of understanding the varied workforce in harm reduction organizations to enhance service delivery and improve outcomes for those who use substances.