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Learning Objective:
1. Understand the design and objectives of the integration program (i.e., viral hepatitis activities integrated with HIV counseling and testing).
2. Know the evaluation results from the MA pilot integration program.
Background:
In April 2002, MDPH awarded grants to five agencies to demonstrate the merits and limitations of integrating viral hepatitis services (screening and vaccination) into the agencies' HIV counseling and testing programs. The project's pilot phase ended in March 2003. In June 2003, an expanded program began in eight sites (including three of the pilot sites).
Setting:
Services were provided at existing, clinic-based HIV counseling and testing sites throughout Massachusetts.
Population e.g. API Youth, MSM, IDU:
Injection drug users
Project Description:
Baseline service delivery data were gathered on clients for 12 months prior to integration. Data collected post-integration included clients' (1) demographic information, (2) risk history for HIV and hepatitis, (3) service delivery history, and (4) laboratory test results. The evaluation addressed 10 research questions related to service delivery, the impact of integration on services, and client outcomes. Where appropriate, the evaluation compared findings for three periods: pre-integration, pilot phase, and expanded service delivery phase.
Results/Lessons Learned:
Of 2,397 clients testing in the post-integration period:
• 8% had evidence of hepatitis C infection.
• The demographic profile of clients was similar in all three project phases.
• Approximately half of clients reported a history of injecting drugs, although this proportion was somewhat less in the expanded phase compared to the pilot phase.
• Hepatitis test results were received by 43% of clients testing.
• The primary referrals were to medical care, mental health services and STD services.
• There were several data quality issues underscoring the need for (1) better documentation at HIV counseling and testing sites, (2) including evaluation planning in program design, (3) better management information systems, and (4) staff training.
See more of I5 - Implementation and Evaluation of Integrated Hepatitis Services
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference