The mission of the Population Health Division is to foster diverse community relationships to overcome health inequities across the district through education, outreach, community mobilization, and partnerships.
Substance Use Disorder Prevention
Comprehensive Harm Reduction
Comprehensive harm reduction (CHR) is an evidence-based public health approach designed to reduce the negative impact of drug use on individuals and their communities. CHR services have been shown to help prevent the spread of HIV, Hepatitis-C, and other communicable diseases, as well as reducing the likelihood of overdose and death. It is intended for those who are unable to, or not ready to cease the use of drugs. For many, CHR is the beginning of their journey towards recovery.
The MRHD CHR program is located inside of the Smyth County Health Department; however, services are not limited to only Smyth County residents. The program extends services to all residents in the MRHD area, as well as anyone seeking services outside of our geographic range.
Services include:
- Testing for HIV, HCV, and other diseases
- Referrals for HIV or HCV treatment
- Narcan/REVIVE! training
- Drug test strips
- Syringe exchange
- Access to a Clothing Closet
- Hygiene products
- Education for safer use
In addition to these services, CHR staff also provide referrals to a variety of services in the community including social services, mental health services, substance use disorder treatment, PrEP, Peer Support Services, housing resources, and assistance with Medicaid enrollment.
Overdose Prevention
The Opioid Epidemic has had a significant impact on our communities. MRHD has made it a priority to work with our localities and other community partners to reduce the number of overdoses in our district. We have also committed to training our community on how to identify an overdose and how to administer naloxone. Trainings are provided on-site at organizations, community events, or at local health department offices. To request a training, call your local health department or email MRHDCommunity@vdh.virginia.gov
For more information about MRHD's Comprehensive Harm Reduction program or peer services call or visit the Smyth County Health Department.
For more information about CHR services in Virginia, please visit VDH's CHR page.
Community Health Assessments
Community Health Assessments (CHAs) & Community Health Improvement Plans (CHIPs) are tools for identifying and addressing health needs of a community. The purpose of CHAs is to collect, analyze, and interpret data related to the health status, needs, and resources of a community. This process involves engaging with community members, health professionals, and stakeholders to gather information, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of local health issues.
Read the 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment here!