Overdose Prevention & Education

Delivering evidence-based education and prevention resources to reduce harm and support substance use health.

Learn More About Our Program
Image

At FMCS, we believe everyone should be treated with dignity and respect and have access to quality healthcare. Through our variety of Overdose Prevention and Education services, our compassionate team provides accessible:

  • Connection to helpful services and resources
  • Opioid overdose reversal medications (NARCAN)
  • Safer methods of drug use
  • Education on overdose prevention
  • Transmittable disease prevention

Our services are available at our community health centers in Washington, D.C. and Prince George’s County, MD, and through our three community-based mobile units.

Overdose Prevention and Education

Delivering evidence-based education and prevention resources to reduce harm and support substance use health.

Image

Prevention Tools that Support Substance User Health

To support the health of individuals who use drugs, FMCS provides prevention tools aimed at reducing the risk of HIV, Hepatitis C, and other blood-borne infections. This includes an exchange-based program for safer use supplies serving substance users in Washington, DC and Prince George’s County. These evidence-based services help reduce harm, encourage safer practices, and contribute to improved public health and safety.

Image

NARCAN Distribution

NARCAN is a medicine used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose quickly and helps reduce the number of opioid overdose-related deaths. At FMCS, we distribute NARCAN through our mobile units, overdose prevention vending machines, and community health centers.

Image

Fentanyl Test Strip Distribution

Fentanyl test strips are used to detect fentanyl in different kinds of drugs to help prevent accidental drug overdose. At FMCS, we distribute Fentanyl test strips through our mobile units, overdoes prevention vending machines, and community health centers.

Image

Hepatitis C Screening

Hepatitis C screenings can detect the infection early and prevent long-term damage to the liver. Our compassionate team provides Hepatitis C screening to the community through our mobile units and at our Community Health Centers. Screening is most beneficial for those who use or have used injectable drugs.

Image

HIV Counseling & Testing

Our experienced team provides HIV Counseling & Testing to the community through our mobile units and at our Community Health Centers. HIV Testing can provide early access to treatment and reduce the risk of transmitting HIV to others. HIV Counseling provides HIV-positive individuals with immediate access to care, treatment, and support services.

Image

Harm Reduction Vending Machines

Our nine overdose prevention vending machines provide lifesaving tools such as NARCAN, Fentanyl testing strips, wound care, safe disposal, and hygiene and wellness products. These vending machines help reduce health risks associated with drug use and help with overdose prevention.

Find An Overdose Prevention Vending Machine
Image

Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)

Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) is a treatment method for individuals with opioid use disorders. This method uses medication (Buprenorphine), counseling, and other support services to provide a safer withdrawal experience and reduce the risk of overdose and relapse.

Image

Linkage to Primary Care

At FMCS, we believe every person deserves access to quality health care and support services. Our experienced team provides Red Carpet Services for individuals who are HIV positive, referrals to case management, and linkage to primary medical care, along with other treatment services.

Image

Overdose Prevention Vending Machines

Our Overdose Prevention Vending Machines are located at the following locations:

  • A Wider Circle
    400-A Atlantic Street, SE
    Washington, DC 20032
  • DC Fire & EMS
    101 Atlantic Street, SE
    Washington, DC 20032
  • DC Fire & EMS
    1101 Half Street, SW
    Washington, DC 20024
  • DC Fire & EMS 
    500 F Street, NW
    Washington, DC 20001
  • Unity Healthcare (Parkside)
    765 Kenilworth Terrace, NE
    Washington, DC 20019
  • Unity Healthcare (Anacostia)
    1500 Galen Street, SE
    Washington, DC 20020
  • Unity Healthcare (Upper Cardozo)
    3020 14th Street, NW
    Washington, DC 20009
  • DC Fire & EMS
    2225 5th Street, NE
    Washington, DC 20002
  • DC Fire & EMS
    1340 Rhode Island Ave, NE
    Washington, DC 20018

To Access An Overdose Prevention Vending Machine, Please Call
202-889-7900

Our Community Health Centers

Image

Washington, DC Office
2041 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE
Suite 303
Washington, DC 20020

Image

Prince George’s County, MD Office
5936 Martin Luther King Jr., Hwy
Seat Pleasant, MD 20743

Image

FMCS Mobile Units
Available Upon Request
Call: 202-889-7900
Email: CUPrevention@fmcsinc.org

”

The doctor was very professional with a beautiful personality. The staff was very polite and very knowledgeable -- smiles all over the place. Thanks for the experience.

— FMCS Patient

”

FMCS is second to none. For almost 2 decades they have provided me with expert care meeting my needs in medical, nutrition as well as up-to-date HIV information.    

— Andrew

”

The staff's attitude is always professional and polite. I really enjoy coming to the Food Bank. Sometimes it feels like home, and I wish I could stay all day and night! Keep smiling; it makes the neighborhood look good.

— FMCS Patient

”

My experience at FMCS has always been positive.  The staff are awesome, friendly, helpful, and efficient.  They always meet my needs and I like that they are secluded and handle my personal information with care.  I look forward to going to every appointment that I schedule.  I thank God for FMCS being located in Anacostia and providing needed services to the community. 

— Barbara

”

I've never met two staff members who work more diligently, courteously, and kindly with the utmost respect.

— FMCS Patient

”

In an arena of much needed medical, mental and emotional services in the heart of S.E. DC, Family and Medical Counseling Service, Inc. has become a pillar of hope and community.  My journey with them has exceeded my expectations over the 13 years of consistent guidance in my life, which has empowered me to grow within myself.  I invite all that are searching for wholeness, healing, help and hope to grasp this life-line and come aboard.  Thanks Family and Medical Counseling Services for embracing all of me.  

— Mali

    Leave Us Your Feedback