Abstract:
This scoping review sought to map the emerging evidence on use of harm
minimization drug treatment programs in criminal justice settings. A search of various
data bases including Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Medline, ProQuest,
SAGE Premier, Scopus, Taylor & Francis Online, and Web of Science yielded eight
studies that met inclusion criteria. The available evidence suggests increasing adoption
of harm minimization policy oriented programs by countries around the world. Specific
programs adopted include needle and syringe exchange, methadone maintenance,
buprenorphine maintenance and treatment in lieu of incarceration. Each of these
programs has evidence to support their effectiveness in relation to individual harm
reduction, disease reduction, increase treatment retention and reduced criminality. This
article considers implications of the adoption of harm minimization policies by criminal
justice systems.
