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Learning Objective:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to:
(1) Learn the four main characteristics of successful hepatitis integration programs.
(2) Describe the infrastructure needs for hepatitis integration.
(3) Understand the types costs associated with hepatitis integration
Background:
n/a
Setting:
Hepatitis integration programs in STD clinics and HIV Counseling and Testing Sites (CTS).
Population e.g. API Youth, MSM, IDU:
STD clinic and HIV CTS clients
Project Description:
RTI International conducted a CDC-sponsored evaluation of how and to what extent hepatitis prevention services (i.e., hepatitis A and B vaccination and hepatitis C [HCV] testing) have been integrated with HIV and STD prevention activities in STD clinics and HIV CTS; the impact of integration on existing HIV and STD prevention activities; and the costs, benefits, and lessons learned from integration. Fifteen sites participated in this evaluation, 13 of which were partially funded by CDC's Viral Hepatitis Integration Project (VHIP). We collected existing data on hepatitis, HIV, and STDs and interviewed site staff about their integration experiences.
Results/Lessons Learned:
The evaluation sites achieved substantial levels of hepatitis integration. Success was related to widespread recognition of the value of integrating services; strong leadership; adequate training programs; and the availability of free hepatitis vaccines and testing. Federal funding and state and local support for hepatitis integration is critical to implementing and sustaining integration efforts. Infrastructure needs were well documented and included: Adequate and trained staff to deliver services; performance monitoring tools; integrated data systems, risk assessments, and laboratory forms; and expanded resources for clinical care for persons diagnosed with HCV in public health settings. To estimate the costs of implementing and maintaining hepatitis services, programs need to consider direct costs, such as the purchase price of hepatitis vaccine and HCV tests, and indirect costs including costs of supervision, staff training, and database management
See more of I5 - Implementation and Evaluation of Integrated Hepatitis Services
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference