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Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to locate free and low-cost resources and model programs to help them successfully integrate hepatitis B vaccination into alternative settings.
Background:
The number of persons newly infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the United States has declined dramatically following the licensure of hepatitis B vaccine. However, in 2003, an estimated 73,000 people still became infected with HBV. Most of these infections occur in young adults, for whom vaccination rates remain suboptimal. The most effective method of vaccinating adults and adolescents at risk of HBV infection is to integrate hepatitis B vaccination into programs offering services to these individuals, such as school-based health centers, STD clinics, correctional facilities, and HIV counseling and testing centers. Many of these alternative settings do not have vaccination experience, and need encouragement and training to offer such services.
Methods:
Investigate resources for providers and clients available from the model programs listed at www.hepprograms.org and from CDC and nonprofit organizations.
Results:
Many free or low-cost resources (including manuals, videos, and print materials) on vaccine handling, storage, administration, and recommendations are available for facilities wanting to begin vaccination programs. Quality educational materials for clients have also been developed; many are targeted toward specific risk groups such as men who have sex with men and sexually active adolescents.
Conclusions:
Dozens of model programs for hepatitis B vaccination in alternative settings have already shown that integration of services is possible and cost-effective. Resources are available for those facilities wanting to learn how to provide vaccination services to adolescents and adults. Accessing available resources will save programs time and money.
Web Page: www.hepprograms.org
See more of Poster Session #1
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference