Background:
Miami-Dade County is composed of multicultural, multilingual residents and visitors. The increased prevalence of anonymous sex, multiple partners, emerging new venues to meet partners and the use of party drugs contribute to the high rates of hepatitis, syphilis and HIV. Limited resources clearly indicated a need to initiate powerful and sustained colloborations which include awareness and access to services both clinical and in non-traditional settings. Integration of services have maximized our efforts and proven to benefit both programs.


Objective:
By viewing this poster, participants will gain knowledge and benefits of integrating Viral Hepatitis Services into STD Programs in both clinical and non-traditional settings.


Method:
The STD and Hepatitis Program has integrated services in STD clinical and non-traditional settings. High-risk Patients seeking Hepatitis Vaccines are offered the full compliment of STD services and vice versa. Outreach consists of screening and vaccines in venues such as bar/clubs/events targeting at risk clientele. Colloborations also include community partnering and coalitions (example: Jail Linkage Coalition), staff/community trainings and educational exchanges.


Result:
Benefits of intergrating services at STD clinics/outreach serttings:
•Cost effective: sharing of clinic space, phlebotomy/nursing staff and clientele
•Facilitates referring STD clients that share the same risk factors for hepatitis B or C, HIV and syphilis to get testing and vice versa.
•Facilitates dual diagnosis and diagnosis of other STDs
•Offering hep A and B vaccines to STD clientele who are high risk or test for HIV as per CDC recommendations.
•Incorporating one risk factor questionnaire that includes risks for both STD's and hepatitis and also one consent form.



Conclusion:
The integration of Services has created awareness, promoted services, prevention, and has influenced a decrease in STD morbidity.

Implications:
Integration is necessary to maximize resources while offering optimum services especially when faced with budgetary and/or other constraints.