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Learning Objective:
1.Describe successful strategies for integrating Hepatitis Prevention and vaccine delivery into HIV Prevention Programs.
2.Identify ways to create client centered access to an array of prevention and health services that allows for easier access and greater participation by those needing prevention services.
3.Understand how collaborations between related health agencies benefits and strengthen all prevention efforts across agencies.
Background:
New Mexico has been working for a number of years to integrate Hepatitis and STI prevention with existing HIV prevention services. These integration efforts to date have been very successful and with the addition of the collaborative efforts across program and agency has solidified the successfulness of the states Hepatitis/HIV/STI Prevention Programs.
Setting:
Various community settings including CBOs, syringe exchange/harm reduction programs, GBT nightclubs, gay gym, homeless shelters, correctional facilities, substance use treatment centers, Internet & street outreach.
Population e.g. API Youth, MSM, IDU:
High risk groups & individuals including, IDU, MSM/T/IDU, MSM/T, incarcerated, commercial sex workers, homeless, and partners of high risk individuals.
Project Description:
Adapting and tailoring DEBI interventions by adding Hepatitis Prevention and vaccine components to the core elements of the intervention curriculum. Integration of Hepatitis prevention information, messages, and vaccine with all HIV/STI prevention and Harm Reduction Programs. Training all HIV prevention and Harm Reduction program staff, & volunteers in Hepatitis facts about transmission, symptoms and methods of prevention. Collaboration between Hepatitis program staff and HIV prevention program staff at all levels to develop appropriate sites and delivery of services.
Results/Lessons Learned:
Successful integration of Hepatitis Prevention and vaccine into DEBI interventions, existing HIV prevention and Harm Reduction Programs is effective at preventing new Hepatitis infections among high risk individuals participating in these HIV prevention programs. Increased participation in services offered across program and agency was observed. Empowerment of participants with knowledge regarding their personal health risks encourages participants to be proactive in their own risk reduction plan.
Web Page: www.NMAS.net
See more of H5 - State-Wide Lessons in Integration
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference