Thinking PCSI: Integrating activities across HIV, sexually transmitted disease (STDs), TB, and viral hepatitis programs at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

Objectives: We sought to integrate cross-cutting activities on HIV and other related and often co-occuring infectious diseases and reduce the separation of programs across the NYC DOHMH. Methods: As part of the CDC's Program Collaboration and Service Integration (PCSI) initiative, we interviewed key DOHMH staff and community providers; reviewed HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, TB and viral hepatitis surveillance data; and reviewed current program priorities and activities. Results: Priority needs that emerged included: data sharing and linkage projects; unified training and outreach for community-based organizations (CBOs) and providers; and review of contracts awarded by DOHMH to service providers. Analyses of integrated data revealed 49 out of 181 of zip codes with high rates of all or some of the following infections: HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, TB, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Next steps include linking disease surveillance registries to measure prevalence of co-infection and providing technical assistance to providers in heavily impacted areas to integrate services. We will also coordinate agency service contracts with providers and develop an integrated training curriculum to help community-based organizations improve care for populations at risk for multiple infections. Conclusions: By integrating services for populations most at risk for HIV and other infectious diseases, health departments may be better able to utilize resources to do more with less.