A Spatial Analysis for Potential Locations for Needle Exchange Programs in Hillsborough County, Florida

Background.

Current research shows that Needle Exchange Programs (NEP) are effective in reducing the transmission of HIV/AIDS among Intravenous Drug Users (IDU). Geographic Information Systems (GIS) research has shown that spatial analysis can provide new insight into identifying regional patterns for diseases such as HIV/AIDS. This study highlights the use of GIS to determine locations for NEP in Hillsborough County, FL.

Objectives.

This study seeks to identify three potential locations for NEP in Hillsborough County, FL. Methods. Spatial analysis is used to pattern HIV/AIDS cases over nine years (1997-2005) by zip codes. By converting HIV/AIDS risk factors such as HIV/AIDS in drug users, Man sex with Man, and STDs into a new geo-database, five potential locations for IDUs were identified. These locations were then combined with traffic generators such as HIV/AIDS care providers, hospitals, Country's health care providers, and STD care providers to find three suitable locations for NEP.

Results.

The results indicate that there downtown Tampa and Ybor city and northern Hillsborough County are suitable locations for NEP. These three areas are locations with a high concentration of HIV/AIDS in drug users. This research questions the effectiveness of two current locations of HIV/AIDS health care providers, as they are not located near these HIV/AIDS hot areas.

Discussion.

This study indicates that NEP may need to incorporate regional patterns when looking to find locations for prevention centers for HIV/AIDS in drug users. Current policies appear to be under-developed, as current NEP were not located near areas with high HIV/AIDS incident rates. Further research may include additional factors, such as cultural and socioeconomic factors, to determine potential locations for NEP. GIS appears to be a valuable tool to facilitate regionally tailored services for HIV/AIDS prevention within a community.