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[ Recorded presentation ] Recorded presentation

Issues in the development and implementation of a continuity of care case-management program for HIV+ incarcerated persons transitioning to community life: Focusing on women's needs

Nancy L. Winterbauer, PhD, Anita Davis, BA, Tara Ramo, Kim Frase, and William C. Livingood, PhD. Institute for Health, Policy and Evaluation Research, Duval County Health Department, 900 University Blvd, North, Suite 604, Jacksonville, FL 32211, 904.630.3269, nancy_winterbauer@doh.state.fl.us

Background: Recognizing greater infection rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among incarcerated populations, the Health Resources and Services Administration and the Centers for Disease Control sponsored a Corrections Demonstration Project (CDP) at seven sites nationwide. The objectives of the CDP were to: increase access to HIV/AIDS primary care/prevention services, improve HIV transitional services, and develop local networks of comprehensive HIV health and social services. The program, known locally as Jail LINC (Linking Inmates Needing Care), initiated in Jacksonville, Florida in 1999 and has been hailed as a success, largely for collaborative agency relationships and the model of case-management used. Still, the development and implementation of the program was an arduous task. Here we discuss challenges faced by program administrators, along with programmatic solutions and unresolved issues. The needs of incarcerated women are highlighted. Methods: Archival materials, primarily minutes from meetings attended by key-stakeholders, were analyzed to describe program development and implementation. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with stakeholders and female Jail LINC participants, which were analyzed to identify themes. Results: Significant challenges confront implementation of programs that require multi-agency responses to the complex health and social problems of incarcerated persons. These include issues specific to incarcerated populations, such as security and confidentiality, and the coordination of communication and procedures between multiple service providers, suppliers and agencies. Conclusions: Strong inter-agency collaborations and leadership enhance continuity of care to HIV+ persons transitioning to community life. Direct attention to the gender-specific needs of women should be incorporated into planning stages of program development.

Learning Objectives: Learning Objectives