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Learning Objective:
By the end of this session, participants will have the knowledge and benefits of integrating Viral Hepatitis Services into STD Programs in both clinical and non-traditional settings.
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.
Setting:
STD clinical and non- traditional settings. Persons seeking services and/or offered services in community settings.
Population e.g. API Youth, MSM, IDU:
Populations at risk for Hepatitis, Syphilis and HIV. Community collaborative emphasis has been with MSM and substance using individuals.
Project Description:
The Hepatitis and STD Program has integrated services in STD clinical and non-traditional settings. High-risk Patients who come in seeking Hepatitis Vaccines are offered the full compliment of STD Program Services and vice versa. Outreach consist of screening and vaccines in venues such as bar/clubs/events in South Beach targeting MSM. Colloborations also include community partnering and coalitions (example: Jail Linkage Coalition), staff/ community trainings and educational exchanges.
Results/Lessons Learned:
Benefits of intergrating hepatitis 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.
•Facilitates hepatitis clients that share risk factors for STD/HIV testing
•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 hepatitis and STD's/ also one consent form.
See more of A4 - Community-Based Integration Models
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference