A comprehensive care program for underserved adolescent and adult women with HIV began at Washington University as a Special Project of National Significance (SPNS) program. To evaluate ancillary services associated with entry into and retention in optimal HIV care (medical visit every three months), we assessed all Title I/II and SPNS ancillary services utilized by SPNS participants during 1997-98. Among 279 participants the median age was 28 years, 77% were African American, 86% reported a sole heterosexual risk factor, 61% reported ³12th grade education, and 58% reported parenting responsibilities. Only transportation was significantly associated with entry into optimal care. Ancillary services associated with retention in optimal care were transportation, legal services, and peer support. Demographic predictors of entry into optimal HIV care were stable housing and higher age. Only transportation was significantly associated with entry into optimal care. African American women entering care used significantly more transportation, emergency assistance, and nutritional services, while those retained in optimal care used more transportation, nutrition, case management and rental assistance. Women with <12 years of education entering care used significantly more mental health services and rental assistance; those retained in care used significantly more mental health services, transportation, and legal services. Women entering care with CD4 counts <200 cells/mm3 used significantly more mental health services, peer support and nutritional services; while for those retained in care only nutritional services were significant. This study shows that selected ancillary services are associated with entry into and retention in optimal medical care for vulnerable patients.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Women, HIV/AIDS
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.