The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #44479

Hope Plavin, MPA¹, Susan J. Klein, MS², and Guthrie S. Birkhead, MD, MPH¹. (1) AIDS Institute, Room 412, Corning Tower, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12237, (518) 473-7542, hap01@health.state.ny.us, (2) Division of HIV Prevention, NYSDOH AIDS Institute, Corning Tower, Room 308, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12237-0684

Against a backdrop of increasing numbers of persons with HIV/AIDS related to injection drug use; increasing incidence of Hepatitis B and C, also related to injection drug use; and, mounting concerns regarding improper disposal of needles and syringes, NYS enacted the Expanded Syringe Access Demonstration Program (ESAP). Under this program, effective January 1, 2001, persons age 18 and over can obtain up to ten syringes without a prescription. Since inception, almost 2,500 providers have enrolled in the program. Over 900 sharps disposal sites are available throughout NYS. To assure maximum utilization of ESAP providers and of existing disposal programs steps included development of local coalitions. These local coalitions engaged diverse constituencies representing public health, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, sanitation, law enforcement, pharmacists and others. Engaging these diverse constituencies in a single unified program required strategic outreach and development of tailored messages and materials. Within a flexible program model, community-wide "systems" of syringe access and safe disposal reflect the unique needs and resources of urban, suburban, and rural areas. New options for access and disposal promote multiple public health objectives. "Lessons learned" in NYS offer promising and innovative approaches to an emerging public health issue and can inform similar efforts elsewhere.

Learning Objectives: Following the presentation, participants will be able to

• Identify constituencies important to program success;
• Understand various local models and their applicability; and
• Identify strategic outreach methods, tailoring educational messages and materials.

Keywords: Syringe Sources, Community Health Programs

Related Web page: www.health.state.ny.us/aids/esap

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.