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.
The Population Health team also helps tackle the Opioid Epidemic and works to prevent overdoses in the Mount Rogers Health District. The team offers education on substance use disorders along with free Narcan trainings. To request a training for your organization, please email MRHDComms@vdh.virginia.gov
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.
For more information about MRHD's Comprehensive Harm Reduction program or peer services visit the Smyth County Health Department or contact:
Tammy Bise, CHR Program Coordinator
276-781-7450
Tammy.Bise@vdh.virginia.gov
Crystal Glass, PRS
276-642-7335
Crystal.Glass@vdh.virginia.gov
Wendy Glass, PRS
276-780-1687
Wendy.Glass@vdh.virginia.gov
For more information about CHR services in Virginia, please visit VDH's CHR page.
Community Health Workers
Community Health Workers serve as a voice for the community and are viewed as the missing link between a client and available health department and other social services.
A team of CHWs have been deployed throughout MRHD and have connected with partners to increase access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery.