Oral

Entering the 4th decade of HIV certain communities have suffered disproportionately from the disease. Drug abuse has remained a dominant mode of HIV transmission along with other pathogens transmitted through bodily fluids. This session will explore innovative interventions targeting these communities to impact knowledge, attitudes and behaviors as well as morbidity and mortality rates associated with HIV and viral Hepatitis. Interventions using various frameworks will address interpersonal, intrapersonal and community factors associated with disease risk including: HIV Rapid Testing, Syringe Access Service, and Safer Injection facilities (SIFs). Participants who attend this session will be exposed to advanced ideas that could potentially be replicated in various communities globally.

Session Objectives: Identify correlates of change in knowledge of HIV and viral hepatitis among drug users. Discuss the most effective approach for HIV rapid testing in drug abuse clinics. Describe the role of safer injection facilities in reducing HIV and Hepatitis C infections and overdose mortality among persons who inject drugs.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)