HEARINGS SCHEDULED ON NEEDLE PROGRAM

The Allegheny County Health Department has scheduled two more hearings to
gauge public support for its needle exchange program.

The purpose of the program, established in November 2001, is to prevent the
spread of HIV and hepatitis C among drug users, but data measuring the
impact of the program is inconclusive.

If sufficient support for the program exists, the department will continue
to evaluate if exchanging clean needles for used ones helps to prevent the
spread of HIV and hepatitis C among drug users.

The first hearing will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 19, in
Building No. 7 of the Clack Health Center, 39th Street and Penn Avenue,
Lawrenceville.

The second will be held from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 21, in the
Bethel Park Community Center, 5151 Park Ave., Bethel Park.

Testimony will be limited to 10 minutes per person; written copies of
comments must be provided to the hearing officer. Appointments are required
and may be scheduled by calling the Health Department at 412-578-8008.

Anyone unable to attend the hearing may submit comments in writing until
Aug. 27.

Comments should be mailed to the Allegheny County Health Department, Office
of the Director, 3333 Forbes Ave., Oakland, 15213.

They may also be e-mailed to (mailto:bdixon@achd.net)bdixon@achd.net or
faxed to 412-578-8325.

For more information, call Tim Curges at 412-578-8081.