Backpack needle exchange: background, design, and pilot testing of a program in Rhode Island

Many individuals who inject drugs do not access existing needle and syringe exchange programs. The ability to obtain clean needles from needle exchanges is limited by operational difficulties, the hours of operation, the location of the programs, and a lack of transportation. Providing multiple points of access to clean needles, including mobile exchange sites, may be necessary to prevent the transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus and other blood-borne viruses. A novel backpack needle exchange outreach model was implemented in Providence, Rhode Island. Backpack exchange participants completed surveys similar to those done by clients of Providence's storefront needle exchange. Backpack exchangers were significantly more likely to be Hispanic and inject more frequently than those who utilized the fixed site. Backpack exchange is a feasible method for providing needle exchange services and referrals to hard-to-reach injectors.