Supervised injection sites (SIS)[1] are medically supervised facilities designed to provide a hygienic environment in which people are able to consume illicit recreational drugs intravenously and prevent deaths due to drug overdoses.[2][3] The legality of such a facility is dependent by location and political jurisdiction. Supervised injection sites are part of a harm reduction approach towards drug problems. The facilities provide sterile injection equipment, information about drugs and basic health care, treatment referrals, access to medical staff, and, at some facilities, counseling.
Inside, North America’s first legal supervised injection site, in Vancouver. (Photo courtesy of Vancouver Coastal Health)