Communication about harm reduction with patients who have opioid use disorder.

Harm reduction strategies can optimize the safety of people with opioid use disorder (OUD). This article offers a communication framework based on the Relationship: Establishment, Development, and Engagement model. Providers are encouraged to use active listening, non-stigmatizing language, and shared decision-making to promote open communication with patients with OUD. The accompanying editorial describes harm reduction strategies providers can offer, including overdose prevention, safer supply, and safer injection strategies.