In June 1998, the New York State Department of Health, in collaboration with the AIDS Institute, issued recommendations that all survivors of rape and sexual assault presenting to Emergency Departments be evaluated for Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) therapy to interrupt transmission of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. The present study assessed the level of adherence to these recommendations among New York City hospitals that treat the majority of admitted assault-related injuries. Using data on treated and released cases of rape and sexual assault from an established Weapon Related Injury Surveillance System (WRISS), we were able to determine the degree to which the state's recommendations are being implemented and to investigate potential barriers to implementation. Preliminary results demonstrate that implementation of the state's recommendations may be incomplete. PEP was offered only to approximately 40% of patients presenting for medical treatment of a rape or sexual assault. Offering PEP was associated with sustaining physical injury, rape by a stranger, and a victim's definitive negative HIV status. Survivors who were raped by strangers, HIV-negative survivors, and survivors with health insurance were more likely to take PEP, if offered. These preliminary results suggest that ED medical care providers may be offering PEP to survivors on a case-by-case basis and that financial concerns may act as a barrier to taking PEP.
Learning Objectives: After attending the session, participants will be able to: 1. Describe the extent to which post-exposure prophylaxis is available to patients seeking care at emergency departments after rape and sexual assault. 2. Identify characteristics of the experiences of rape and sexual assault survivors associated with receipt of post-exposure prophylaxis. 3. Apply knowledge of the implementation of post-exposure prophylaxis to health care services for rape and sexual assault survivors.
Keywords: Sexual Assault, Women and 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.