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Tamargo JA, Martin HR, Diaz-Martinez J, Delgado-Enciso I, Johnson A, Bastida Rodriguez JA, Trepka MJ, Brown DR, Garba NA, Roldan EO, Hernandez Suarez Y, Marty AM, Bursac Z, Campa A, Baum MK. Drug use and COVID-19 testing, vaccination, and infection among underserved, minority communities in Miami, Florida. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297327. [PMID: 38687734 PMCID: PMC11060546 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has disproportionately impacted people who use drugs (PWUD). This study explored relationships between drug use, COVID-19 testing, vaccination, and infection. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Miami, Florida between March 2021 and October 2022 as part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics-Underserved Populations (RADx-UP) initiative and the Miami Adult Studies on HIV (MASH) cohort. Users of cannabis, cocaine/crack, heroin/fentanyl, methamphetamines, hallucinogens, and/or prescription drug misuse in the previous 12 months were considered PWUD. Sociodemographic data, COVID-19 testing history, and vaccination-related beliefs were self-reported. Vaccinations were confirmed with medical records and positivity was determined with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) testing. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests and logistic regression. Of 1,780 participants, median age was 57 years, 50.7% were male, 50.2% Non-Hispanic Black, and 66.0% reported an annual income less than $15,000. Nearly 28.0% used drugs. PWUD were less likely than non-users to self-report ever testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 (14.7% vs. 21.0%, p = 0.006). However, 2.6% of participants tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, with no significant differences between PWUD and non-users (3.7% vs. 2.2%, p = 0.076). PWUD were more likely than non-users to experience difficulties accessing testing (10.2% vs. 7.1%, p = 0.033), vaccine hesitancy (58.9% vs. 43.4%, p = 0.002) and had lower odds of receiving any dose of a COVID-19 vaccine compared to non-users (aOR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.49-0.81; p<0.001). PWUD presented with greater difficulties accessing COVID-19 testing, greater vaccine hesitancy, and lower odds of vaccination. Testing and immunization plans that are tailored to the needs of PWUD and consider access, trust-building campaigns, and education may be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier A. Tamargo
- Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Haley R. Martin
- Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Janet Diaz-Martinez
- Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Ivan Delgado-Enciso
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Colima, Las Víboras, Colima, Mexico
- Cancerology State Institute, Colima State Health Services, La Esperanza, Colima, Mexico
| | - Angelique Johnson
- Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Jose A. Bastida Rodriguez
- Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Mary Jo Trepka
- Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - David R. Brown
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Nana A. Garba
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Eneida O. Roldan
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Yolangel Hernandez Suarez
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Aileen M. Marty
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Zoran Bursac
- Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Adriana Campa
- Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Marianna K. Baum
- Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
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Rioux W, Kilby K, Jones S, Joshi P, Vandenberg S, Ghosh SM. Perspectives of healthcare workers on the integration of overdose detection technologies in acute care settings. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2024; 19:4. [PMID: 38217056 PMCID: PMC10785401 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-023-00433-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who use drugs (PWUD) face disproportionately high rates of hospitalizations and patient-initiated discharge (leaving against medical advice), explained by a combination of stigma, withdrawal, judgment, blame, and improper pain management. In addition, evidence has shown that despite abstinence-based policies within healthcare settings, PWUD continue to use their substances in healthcare environments often hidden away from hospital staff, resulting in fatalities. Various novel overdose detection technologies (ODTs) have been developed with early adoption in a few settings to reduce the morbidity and mortality from risky substance use patterns within healthcare environments. Our study aimed to gain the perspectives of healthcare workers across Canada on implementing ODTs within these settings. METHOD We used purposive and snowball sampling to recruit 16 healthcare professionals to participate in semi-structured interviews completed by two evaluators. Interview transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes and subthemes. RESULTS Participants recognized ODTs as a potentially feasible solution for increasing the safety of PWUD in healthcare settings. Our results suggest the mixed ability of these services to decrease stigma and build rapport with PWUD. Participants further highlighted barriers to implementing these services, including pre-established policies, legal recourse, and coordination of emergency responses to suspected overdoses. Lastly, participants highlight that ODTs should only be one part of a multifaceted approach to reducing harm in healthcare settings and could currently be integrated into discharge planning. CONCLUSION Healthcare professionals from across Canada found ODTs to be an acceptable intervention, but only as part of a larger suite of harm reduction interventions to reduce the harms associated with illicit drug use in healthcare settings. In contrast, participants noted institutional policies, stigma on behalf of healthcare workers and leadership would present significant challenges to their uptake and dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Rioux
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Kyle Kilby
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Pamela Joshi
- Provincial Perinatal Substance Use Program, BC Women's Hospital & Health Center, Provincial Health Services Authority, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - S Monty Ghosh
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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Curtis SJ, Colledge-Frisby S, Stewardson AJ, Doyle JS, Higgs P, Maher L, Hickman M, Stoové MA, Dietze PM. Prevalence and incidence of emergency department presentations and hospital separations with injecting-related infections in a longitudinal cohort of people who inject drugs. Epidemiol Infect 2023; 151:e192. [PMID: 37953739 PMCID: PMC10728979 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268823001784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
People who inject drugs are at risk of acute bacterial and fungal injecting-related infections. There is evidence that incidence of hospitalizations for injecting-related infections are increasing in several countries, but little is known at an individual level. We aimed to examine injecting-related infections in a linked longitudinal cohort of people who inject drugs in Melbourne, Australia. A retrospective descriptive analysis was conducted to estimate the prevalence and incidence of injecting-related infections using administrative emergency department and hospital separation datasets linked to the SuperMIX cohort, from 2008 to 2018. Over the study period, 33% (95%CI: 31-36%) of participants presented to emergency department with any injecting-related infections and 27% (95%CI: 25-30%) were admitted to hospital. Of 1,044 emergency department presentations and 740 hospital separations, skin and soft tissue infections were most common, 88% and 76%, respectively. From 2008 to 2018, there was a substantial increase in emergency department presentations and hospital separations with any injecting-related infections, 48 to 135 per 1,000 person-years, and 18 to 102 per 1,000 person-years, respectively. The results emphasize that injecting-related infections are increasing, and that new models of care are needed to help prevent and facilitate early detection of superficial infection to avoid potentially life-threatening severe infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie J. Curtis
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Samantha Colledge-Frisby
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew J. Stewardson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Joseph S. Doyle
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter Higgs
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Lisa Maher
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The Kirby Institute, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Wallace Wurth Building, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Mark A. Stoové
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The Kirby Institute, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Wallace Wurth Building, Kensington, NSW, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul M. Dietze
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Armoon B, Fleury MJ, Griffiths MD, Bayani A, Mohammadi R, Ahounbar E. Emergency Department Use, Hospitalization, and Their Sociodemographic Determinants among Patients with Substance-Related Disorders: A Worldwide Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Subst Use Misuse 2023; 58:331-345. [PMID: 36592043 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2022.2161313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background: Identifying the determinants of emergency department (ED) use and hospitalization among patients with substance-related disorders (SRD) can help inform healthcare services and case management regarding their unmet health needs and strategies to reduce their acute care. Objectives: The present study aimed to identify sociodemographic characteristics, type of used drug, and risky behaviors associated with ED use and hospitalization among patients with SRD. Methods: Studies in English published from January 1st, 1995 to April 30th, 2022 were searched from PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science to identify primary studies on ED use and hospitalization among patients with SRD. Results: Of the 17,348 outputs found, a total of 39 studies met the eligibility criteria. Higher ED use and hospitalization among patients with SRD were associated with a history of homelessness (ED use: OR = 1.93, 95%CI = 1.32-2.83; hospitalization: OR = 1.53, 95%CI = 1.36-1.73) or of injection drug use (ED use: OR = 1.34, 95%CI = 1.13-1.59; hospitalization: OR = 1.42, 95%CI = 1.20-1.69). Being female (OR = 1.24, 95%CI = 1.14-1.35), using methamphetamine (OR = 1.99, 95%CI = 1.24-3.21) and tobacco (OR = 1.25, 95%CI = 1.11-1.42), having HIV (OR = 1.70, 95%CI = 1.47-1.96), a history of incarceration (OR = 1.90, 95%CI = 1.27-2.85) and injury (OR = 2.62, 95%CI = 1.08-6.35) increased ED use only, while having age over 30 years (OR = 1.40, 95%CI = 1.08-1.81) and using cocaine (OR = 1.60, 95%CI = 1.32-1.95) increased hospitalization only among patients with SRD. Conclusions: The finding outline the necessity of developing outreach program and primary care referral for patients with SRD. Establishing a harm reduction program, incorporating needle/syringe exchange programs, and safe injection training with the aim of declining ED use and hospitalization, is likely be another beneficial strategy for patients with SRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Armoon
- Douglas Hospital Research Centre, Douglas Mental Health University InstituteMontreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Josée Fleury
- Douglas Hospital Research Centre, Douglas Mental Health University InstituteMontreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mark D Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Azadeh Bayani
- Student Research Committee, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rasool Mohammadi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, School of Public Health and Nutrition, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran.,Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Nutrition, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Elaheh Ahounbar
- Orygen, The National Center of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Center for Youth Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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Iversen J, Wand H, Kemp R, Bevan J, Briggs M, Patten K, Heard S, Maher L. Uptake of COVID-19 vaccination among people who inject drugs. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:59. [PMID: 35655217 PMCID: PMC9162792 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00643-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People who inject drugs (PWID) may be at elevated risk of adverse outcomes from SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, data on COVID-19 vaccine uptake among PWID are scarce. This study aimed to determine COVID-19 vaccine uptake among PWID, identify factors associated with sub-optimal uptake, and compare uptake to the general population.
Methods The Australian Needle Syringe Program Survey is an annual sentinel surveillance project, comprising a self-completed questionnaire and provision of a dried blood sample for HIV and HCV testing. In 2021, respondents provided information on their COVID-19 vaccination status. Multivariate logistic regression models identified correlates of vaccine uptake.
Results Among 1166 respondents, 49% had been vaccinated and in most states and territories, vaccine uptake was significantly lower than among the general population. Independent predictors of vaccine uptake were longer duration of vaccine eligibility (AOR 3.42, 95% CI 2.65, 4.41); prior SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic testing (AOR 2.90, 95% CI 2.22, 3.79); injection of opioids (AOR 1.91, 95% CI 1.20, 3.05); and current opioid agonist therapy (AOR 1.70, 95% CI 1.23, 2.33). Women (AOR 0.70, 95% CI 0.54, 0.92) and those who reported daily or more frequent injection (AOR 0.75, 95% CI 0.57, 1.00) were significantly less likely to be vaccinated. Conclusions In most Australian states and territories, uptake of COVID-19 vaccine among PWID lagged uptake among the general population. Increased efforts are required to ensure PWID have equitable access to vaccination. Vaccination programmes within harm reduction services and via outreach, coupled with increased support for peers to act as vaccine champions, are likely to reduce barriers and improve COVID-19 vaccine uptake in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Iversen
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
| | - Handan Wand
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Robert Kemp
- Queensland Health Department, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jude Bevan
- Western Australian Department of Health, Perth, Australia
| | - Myf Briggs
- Tasmanian Department of Health, Hobart, Australia
| | - Kate Patten
- New South Wales Ministry of Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sue Heard
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Lisa Maher
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
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6
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Eng CW, Tuot S, Chann N, Chhoun P, Mun P, Yi S. Recent HIV testing and associated factors among people who use drugs in Cambodia: a national cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e045282. [PMID: 33653761 PMCID: PMC7929833 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-045282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of HIV testing and examine factors associated with recent HIV testing among people who use drugs (PWUD) in Cambodia. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Twelve major provinces with a high burden of HIV and drug use in Cambodia. PARTICIPANTS This study included 1677 PWUD recruited using a peer-based social network recruitment method. Participants' selection criteria included being at least 18 years old and using any illicit drugs via any administration routes in the past 12 months. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE Recent HIV testing, defined as having an HIV test in the past 6 months. RESULTS The median age of the participants was 28 (IQR 22-34) years, and 56.6% were men. The prevalence of lifetime and recent HIV testing was 70.7% and 42.9%, respectively. After adjustment in multivariable logistic regression analysis, recent HIV testing remained positively associated with being female (adjusted OR (AOR) 1.55, 95% CI 1.18 to 2.04) or third gender identity (AOR 2.06, 95% CI 1.11 to 3.80), having ever been to a drug rehabilitation centre (AOR 1.60, 95% CI 1.13 to 2.29), having used any HIV services in the past 6 months (AOR 7.37, 95% CI 5.61 to 9.69), having received HIV education in the past 3 months (AOR 3.40, 95% CI 2.63 to 4.40) and having self-perception of higher HIV risk (AOR 1.81, 95% CI 1.19 to 2.73). CONCLUSIONS Recent HIV test uptake among PWUD in Cambodia was suboptimal. This study highlights the roles of outreach HIV education and services in promoting regular HIV testing among PWUD. Strengthening the coordinated effort of government agencies and local civil society organisations to prioritise expanding community-based peer-driven interventions to reach out to this hidden population is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chee Wen Eng
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Sovannary Tuot
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Navy Chann
- Surveillance Unit, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Dermatology and STD, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Pheak Chhoun
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Phalkun Mun
- Surveillance Unit, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Dermatology and STD, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Siyan Yi
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
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7
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Iversen J, Peacock A, Price O, Byrne J, Dunlop A, Maher L. COVID-19 vaccination among people who inject drugs: Leaving no one behind. Drug Alcohol Rev 2021; 40:517-520. [PMID: 33650174 PMCID: PMC8013693 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Iversen
- Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Amy Peacock
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Olivia Price
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jude Byrne
- Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League, Canberra, Australia
| | - Adrian Dunlop
- Drug and Alcohol Clinical Services, Hunter New England Local Health District, Newcastle, Australia.,Faculty of Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Lisa Maher
- Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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8
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Di Rico R, Nambiar D, Gabbe B, Stoové M, Dietze P. Patient-specific record linkage between emergency department and hospital admission data for a cohort of people who inject drugs: methodological considerations for frequent presenters. BMC Med Res Methodol 2020; 20:283. [PMID: 33246414 PMCID: PMC7694355 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-020-01163-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People who inject drugs (PWID) have been identified as frequent users of emergency department (ED) and hospital inpatient services. The specific challenges of record linkage in cohorts with numerous administrative health records occurring in close proximity are not well understood. Here, we present a method for patient-specific record linkage of ED and hospital admission data for a cohort of PWID. Methods Data from 688 PWID were linked to two state-wide administrative health databases identifying all ED visits and hospital admissions for the cohort between January 2008 and June 2013. We linked patient-specific ED and hospital admissions data, using administrative date-time timestamps and pre-specified linkage criteria, to identify hospital admissions stemming from ED presentations for a given individual. The ability of standalone databases to identify linked ED visits or hospital admissions was examined. Results There were 3459 ED visits and 1877 hospital admissions identified during the study period. Thirty-four percent of ED visits were linked to hospital admissions. Most links had hospital admission timestamps in-between or identical to their ED visit timestamps (n = 1035, 87%). Allowing 24-h between ED visits and hospital admissions captured more linked records, but increased manual inspection requirements. In linked records (n = 1190), the ED ‘departure status’ variable correctly reflected subsequent hospital admission in only 68% of cases. The hospital ‘admission type’ variable was non-specific in identifying if a preceding ED visit had occurred. Conclusions Linking ED visits with subsequent hospital admissions in PWID requires access to date and time variables for accurate temporal sorting, especially for same-day presentations. Selecting time-windows to capture linked records requires discretion. Researchers risk under-ascertainment of hospital admissions if using ED data alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rehana Di Rico
- Program for Behaviours and Health Risks, Burnet Institute, 85 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia. .,Epworth Monash Rehabilitation Medicine Unit, Epworth HealthCare, 32 Erin Street, Richmond, Victoria, 3121, Australia.
| | - Dhanya Nambiar
- Population Health Research, Turning Point/ Central Clinical School, Monash University, 110 Church Street, Richmond, Victoria, 3121, Australia
| | - Belinda Gabbe
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia.,Health Data Research UK, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Mark Stoové
- Program for Behaviours and Health Risks, Burnet Institute, 85 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia.,Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia
| | - Paul Dietze
- Program for Behaviours and Health Risks, Burnet Institute, 85 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia.,Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia
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9
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Pearce LA, Homayra F, Dale LM, Moallef S, Barker B, Norton A, Hayashi K, Nosyk B. Non-disclosure of drug use in outpatient health care settings: Findings from a prospective cohort study in Vancouver, Canada. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 84:102873. [PMID: 32731111 PMCID: PMC7832509 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Illicit drug use is associated with severe health-related harms, yet people who use drugs (PWUD) face substantial barriers to healthcare. We sought to identify factors associated with disclosure of drug use to a healthcare provider and describe differences in self-reported quality of care received based on disclosure status. METHODS A client-reported experience questionnaire on healthcare access and quality, adapted from the World Health Organization Survey on Health and Health System Responsiveness, was administered within two ongoing prospective cohort studies of PWUD in Vancouver, Canada. Respondents not currently receiving addiction treatment were asked about experience of care and drug use disclosure to their most commonly accessed outpatient healthcare provider in the past 6 months. We used an adjusted logistic regression model to identify client characteristics associated with disclosure. RESULTS From a total of 261 respondents (34.1% female), less than half (n = 125, 47.8%) reported disclosing drug use to their healthcare provider. Indigenous participants were less likely to disclose compared to non-Indigenous participants (adjusted OR: 0.55, 95% confidence interval: 0.30, 0.97). Disclosure was associated with lower self-reported quality of care (overall rating: disclosed 8.2 vs. did not disclose 8.8, p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS In a sample of PWUD accessing outpatient healthcare services, we observed low rates of drug use disclosure, particularly for Indigenous respondents, and reduced quality of care for those who disclosed. These findings highlight the need for culturally safe and non-stigmatizing care to address pervasive stereotyping in the healthcare system and improved screening for substance use disorder in outpatient healthcare services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay A Pearce
- Health Economic Research Unit, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton VIC 3053, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Fahmida Homayra
- Health Economic Research Unit, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Laura M Dale
- Health Economic Research Unit, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Soroush Moallef
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada
| | - Brittany Barker
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; First Nations Research and Knowledge Exchange, First Nations Health Authority, 100 Park Royal South, West Vancouver V7T 1A2, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 317-2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Alexa Norton
- First Nations Research and Knowledge Exchange, First Nations Health Authority, 100 Park Royal South, West Vancouver V7T 1A2, Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Bohdan Nosyk
- Health Economic Research Unit, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada.
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10
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Batty EJ, Brown RL. Psychosocial resources and strains and health services use among adult illicit drug users from the Miami-Dade community. J Addict Dis 2019; 38:42-48. [PMID: 31741426 DOI: 10.1080/10550887.2019.1690930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This study builds on previous research concerning the associations of positive and negative dimensions of the self-concept and social relationships, respectively, with medical treatment seeking actions by modeling potentially positive and negative effects simultaneously. Using data from the first wave of a large community study including adult (20-93) drug users (n = 318), multivariate linear regression analysis presents the effects of psychosocial resources on drug users' medical treatment seeking in six progressive models. Social resources such as family support, family conflict, and friend support account for variation in medical treatment seeking actions in adult drug users. Dimensions of the self-concept, including perception of powerlessness and self-esteem also influence medical treatment seeking actions in adult drug users. Moderation tests reveal that the presence of family problems related to drug use is associated with a lower likelihood of taking treatment-seeking action in the context of greater family support. This study assessed how positive and negative dimensions of social relationships and the self-concept can jointly influence medical treatment seeking actions. Implications for medical treatment seeking action research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan J Batty
- Department of Sociology, University of Kentucky, 1522 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Robyn Lewis Brown
- Department of Sociology, University of Kentucky, 1522 Patterson Office Tower, Lexington, KY, USA
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Harms associated with extramedical use of prescription opioid analgesics in Australia: A scoping review. Res Social Adm Pharm 2019; 15:925-935. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Williams B, Howell J, Doyle J, Thompson AJ, Draper B, Layton C, Latham N, Bramwell F, Membrey D, Mcpherson M, Roney J, Stoové M, Hellard ME, Pedrana A. Point-of-care hepatitis C testing from needle and syringe programs: An Australian feasibility study. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 72:91-98. [PMID: 31129023 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achieving hepatitis C elimination requires novel approaches to engage people at highest risk of infection into care pathways. Point-of-care-tests may help to overcome some of the barriers preventing people who inject drugs (PWID) accessing testing and progressing to treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV). We assessed the feasibility and acceptability of HCV point-of-care testing at needle and syringe exchange programs (NSPs) co-located in three community health clinics in Melbourne, Australia. METHODS NSP clients were offered an oral fluid point-of-care test for HCV antibody by NSP staff. Positive HCV antibody tests were followed by a point-of-care test for HCV RNA alongside standard-of-care laboratory testing for hepatitis C treatment work-up. Participants were offered same-day point-of-care results on site, via phone or text message, or upon return to the service. Participants were scheduled for follow-up review with the study nurse for assessment and linkage to treatment. RESULTS A total of 174 participants completed HCV antibody point-of-care test; 150 (86%) had a reactive result. Of these, 140 (93%) underwent a HCV RNA point-of-care test and 76 (54%) tested positive; few participants (5%) waited on site for results delivery, but the majority of RNA positive (63%) attended a follow-up visit for treatment work-up (median time to follow-up visit = 11 days; IQR = 7-20 days). The majority of participants reported a preference for point-of-care tests (66%) and supported NSP staff involvement in testing (90%). CONCLUSION Provision of HCV point-of-care tests, follow-up and linkage to treatment services through NSPs was feasible and acceptable to PWID. Despite few participants waiting to receive same-day results, there was effective linkage to care, suggesting value in further evaluation of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Williams
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Jessica Howell
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Joseph Doyle
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alexander J Thompson
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Bridget Draper
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chloe Layton
- Cohealth, General Practice, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ned Latham
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Dean Membrey
- Cohealth, General Practice, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Maggie Mcpherson
- North Richmond Community Health, General Practice, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Janine Roney
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark Stoové
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Margaret E Hellard
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alisa Pedrana
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Holeksa J, Magel T, Conway B. HCV elimination and the opioid crisis – joint epidemics, joint solutions: results of a pilot program. Future Virol 2019. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2018-0206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Aim: People who use drugs in Canada are disproportionately affected by both the HCV and opioid overdose epidemics. It is feasible to envision a solution to address both issues simultaneously. Methodology: A retrospective chart review of HCV-infected patients with a history of drug use was conducted. All patients enrolled at our center have access to multidisciplinary care to address medical, social, psychiatric and addictions-related needs in an integrated manner. Results: Since 2014, 337 individuals have initiated HCV treatment, in whom 30 medically significant overdoses have occurred, including three deaths. Conclusion: The model we have developed could be an ideal approach to address HCV, as well as respond to the opioid crisis, in a high-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Holeksa
- Vancouver Infectious Diseases Centre, 201-1200 Burrard Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6Z 2C7, Canada
| | - Tianna Magel
- Vancouver Infectious Diseases Centre, 201-1200 Burrard Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6Z 2C7, Canada
| | - Brian Conway
- Vancouver Infectious Diseases Centre, 201-1200 Burrard Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6Z 2C7, Canada
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Weir SS, Baral SD, Edwards JK, Zadrozny S, Hargreaves J, Zhao J, Sabin K. Opportunities for Enhanced Strategic Use of Surveys, Medical Records, and Program Data for HIV Surveillance of Key Populations: Scoping Review. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2018; 4:e28. [PMID: 29789279 PMCID: PMC5989065 DOI: 10.2196/publichealth.8042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2017] [Revised: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Normative guidelines from the World Health Organization recommend tracking strategic information indicators among key populations. Monitoring progress in the global response to the HIV epidemic uses indicators put forward by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS. These include the 90-90-90 targets that require a realignment of surveillance data, routinely collected program data, and medical record data, which historically have developed separately. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe current challenges for monitoring HIV-related strategic information indicators among key populations ((men who have sex with men [MSM], people in prisons and other closed settings, people who inject drugs, sex workers, and transgender people) and identify future opportunities to enhance the use of surveillance data, programmatic data, and medical record data to describe the HIV epidemic among key populations and measure the coverage of HIV prevention, care, and treatment programs. METHODS To provide a historical perspective, we completed a scoping review of the expansion of HIV surveillance among key populations over the past three decades. To describe current efforts, we conducted a review of the literature to identify published examples of SI indicator estimates among key populations. To describe anticipated challenges and future opportunities to improve measurement of strategic information indicators, particularly from routine program and health data, we consulted participants of the Third Global HIV Surveillance Meeting in Bangkok, where the 2015 World Health Organization strategic information guidelines were launched. RESULTS There remains suboptimal alignment of surveillance and programmatic data, as well as routinely collected medical records to facilitate the reporting of the 90-90-90 indicators for HIV among key populations. Studies (n=3) with estimates of all three 90-90-90 indicators rely on cross-sectional survey data. Programmatic data and medical record data continue to be insufficiently robust to provide estimates of the 90-90-90 targets for key populations. CONCLUSIONS Current reliance on more active data collection processes, including key population-specific surveys, remains warranted until the quality and validity of passively collected routine program and medical record data for key populations is optimized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Stucker Weir
- Carolina Population Center, Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Stefan D Baral
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jessie K Edwards
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Sabrina Zadrozny
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - James Hargreaves
- Department of Social and Environmental Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jinkou Zhao
- Technical.Advice and Partnerships Department, The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Keith Sabin
- Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, Geneva, Switzerland
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Scarborough J, Miller ER, Aylward P, Eliott J. 'Sussing that doctor out.' Experiences and perspectives of people affected by hepatitis C regarding engagement with private general practitioners in South Australia: a qualitative study. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2017; 18:97. [PMID: 29187145 PMCID: PMC5707807 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-017-0669-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Australians with chronic hepatitis C (HCV) can access affordable Direct Acting Antiviral (DAA) treatments with high cure rates (>90%), via General Practitioners (GPs). Benefits from this treatment will be maximised if people with HCV readily disclose and engage with private GPs regarding HCV-related issues. Investigating the perceptions and experiences of people affected by HCV with GPs can allow for this pathway to care for HCV to be improved. METHODS In 2013-2014, 22 purposively sampled participants from South Australia (SA) were interviewed. They a) had contracted or were at risk of hepatitis C (n = 10), b) were key workers who had clients affected by HCV (n = 6), and c) met both a) and b) criteria (n = 6). The semi-structured interviews were recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed. RESULTS People affected by HCV viewed GPs as a source of general healthcare but, due to negative experiences and perceptions, many developed a strategy of "sussing" out doctors before engaging with and disclosing to a GP regarding HCV-related issues. Participants were doubtful about the benefits of engagement and disclosure, and did not assume that they would be provided best-practice care in a non-discriminatory, non-judgemental way. They perceived risks to confidentiality and risks of changes to the care they received from GPs upon disclosure. CONCLUSION GPs may need to act in ways that counteract the perceived risks and persuade people affected by HCV of the benefits of seeking HCV-related care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Scarborough
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia.
| | - Emma Ruth Miller
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Paul Aylward
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Jaklin Eliott
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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Nambiar D, Stoové M, Hickman M, Dietze P. A prospective cohort study of hospital separations among people who inject drugs in Australia: 2008-2013. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e014854. [PMID: 28821513 PMCID: PMC5724200 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-014854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Injecting drug use is a persistent behaviour that increases the risk of morbidities and mortality. We assessed the burden of hospital separations among people who inject drugs (PWID), the excess compared to the general population and characteristics of separations associated with frequent use. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING All public and private hospitals in Victoria. PARTICIPANTS 757 community-based PWID with hospital separations between January 2008 and June 2013 identified through record linkage, who contributed over 3729 person-years. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Counts, proportions and rates of hospital separations, descriptive administrative data including all diagnoses, comparison of separation rates to the general population, trend in separations and factors associated with frequent separations. RESULTS There were 2106 separations in the cohort. The most common principal diagnoses were related to mental and behavioural disorders (31%), but social circumstances influencing health was the most common group of diagnoses (61%) when all contributing diagnoses for each patient were considered. Separation rates were up to three times higher than in the age-matched population, and there was a 12% increase in separations every 6 months. Over a quarter (29%) of the cohort had frequent separations (defined as two or more separations in a calendar year), which were associated with mental health-related diagnoses, being discharged to locations other than a patient's residence, having a medical as opposed to surgical intervention, seasonal patterns, relationship status and gender. CONCLUSIONS Mental health conditions and other characteristics associated with separations and frequent separations in particular, emphasise the importance of providing referrals to harm reduction, social services and mental health services at discharge in order to reduce excess hospital separations among PWID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhanya Nambiar
- Centre for Population Health, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark Stoové
- Centre for Population Health, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew Hickman
- School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Paul Dietze
- Centre for Population Health, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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The Role of Internalized Stigma in the Disclosure of Injecting Drug Use Among People Who Inject Drugs and Self-Report as HIV-Positive in Kohtla-Järve, Estonia. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:1034-1043. [PMID: 27990583 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1647-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Disclosure of injecting drug use and its associations with stigma have received very little research attention. This cross-sectional study examined the role of internalized HIV and drug stigma (i.e., self-stigmatization) in the disclosure of injecting drug use among people who inject drugs (PWID) self-reporting as HIV-positive (n = 312) in Kohtla-Järve, Estonia. The internalization of both stigmas was relatively high. On average, PWID disclosed to three disclosure targets out of seven. Disclosure was highest to close friends and health care workers and lowest to employers and casual sex partners. Internalized drug stigma was negatively associated with disclosure to other family members (AOR = 0.48; 95% CI 0.30-0.77) and health care workers (AOR = 0.46; 95% CI 0.25-0.87). Internalized HIV stigma was positively associated with disclosure to health care workers (AOR = 2.26; 95% CI 1.27-4.00). No interaction effect of internalized stigmas on disclosures emerged. We concluded that effects of internalized stigmas on disclosures are few and not uniform.
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Carroll M, Sutherland G, Kemp-Casey A, Kinner SA. Agreement between self-reported healthcare service use and administrative records in a longitudinal study of adults recently released from prison. HEALTH & JUSTICE 2016; 4:11. [PMID: 27942429 PMCID: PMC5121169 DOI: 10.1186/s40352-016-0042-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies of healthcare service use often rely on self-reported data, especially in disadvantaged populations. Despite this, the reliability of self-reported healthcare service use is often questioned and routinely-collected, administrative data are usually considered preferable. In this paper we examine the agreement between self-reported healthcare service use and administrative records, in a large cohort of adults recently released from prison in Australia. METHODS Baseline interviews within 6 weeks of expected release from prison and follow-up interviews at 1, 3 and 6 months post-release were linked to routinely-collected, administrative health records over the same time period. Outcomes of interest included use of primary care, emergency department presentation, hospitalisation and dispensing of subsidised pharmaceuticals. Kappa statistics and positive and negative predictive values were calculated for each service type and time point, and a modified Poisson regression was used to identify participant characteristics associated with better agreement. RESULTS 864 participants completed interviews and were successfully linked to administrative records. There was good agreement between self-report and administrative health records. Agreement between data sources at 1 month was best for psychotropic medications (kappa = 0.79) and primary care visits (kappa = 0.69). CONCLUSION Despite a common perception that studies using self-reported data are subject to bias, particularly among the disadvantaged, our findings suggest that self-reported healthcare may be valid in vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Carroll
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Georgina Sutherland
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anna Kemp-Casey
- Centre for Health Services Research, School of Population Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Stuart A. Kinner
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Griffith Criminology Institute & Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
- Mater Research Institute-UQ, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Rowe R, Berger I, Copeland J. “No pain, no gainz”? Performance and image-enhancing drugs, health effects and information seeking. DRUGS-EDUCATION PREVENTION AND POLICY 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/09687637.2016.1207752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Rowe
- Drug and Alcohol Multicultural Education Centre, Redfern, NSW, Australia and
| | - Israel Berger
- Drug and Alcohol Multicultural Education Centre, Redfern, NSW, Australia and
| | - Jan Copeland
- National Cannabis Information and Prevention Centre, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Randwick, NSW, Australia
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Black KI, Day CA. Improving Access to Long-Acting Contraceptive Methods and Reducing Unplanned Pregnancy Among Women with Substance Use Disorders. Subst Abuse 2016; 10:27-33. [PMID: 27199563 PMCID: PMC4869602 DOI: 10.4137/sart.s34555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Revised: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Much has been written about the consequences of substance use in pregnancy, but there has been far less focus on the prevention of unintended pregnancies in women with substance use disorders (SUDs). We examine the literature on pregnancy incidence for women with SUDs, the clinical and economic benefits of increasing access to long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods in this population, and the current hurdles to increased access and uptake. High rates of unintended pregnancies and poor physical and psychosocial outcomes among women with SUDs underscore the need for increased access to, and uptake of, LARC methods among these women. A small number of studies that focused on improving access to contraception, especially LARC, via integrated contraception services predominantly provided in drug treatment programs were identified. However, a number of barriers remain, highlighting that much more research is needed in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten I. Black
- Central Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Carolyn A. Day
- Discipline of Addiction Medicine, Central Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Mlunde LB, Sunguya BF, Mbwambo JKK, Ubuguyu OS, Shibanuma A, Yasuoka J, Jimba M. Correlates of health care seeking behaviour among people who inject drugs in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2016; 30:66-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2015.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Revised: 11/02/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Dunn M, Henshaw R, McKay FH. Do performance and image enhancing drug users in regional Queensland experience difficulty accessing health services? Drug Alcohol Rev 2015; 35:377-82. [PMID: 26644363 DOI: 10.1111/dar.12363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Revised: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIM To understand health service access and needs of people who use performance and image enhancing drugs (PIED) in regional Queensland. DESIGN AND METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 people (n = 19 men) who reported the use of a range of PIEDs, including anabolic-androgenic steroids, human chorionic gonadotropin, growth hormone, clenbuterol, tamoxifen, insulin and peptides. RESULTS Participants reported accessing a range of services, including needle and syringe programs and pharmacies, for sterile injecting equipment. While PIEDs users attributed some stigma to needle and syringe programs, they were seen as an important service for injecting equipment. Participants reported receiving either positive care from health-care providers, such as general practitioners (GP), or having negative experiences due to the stigma attached with PIED use. Few participants reported disclosing their PIED use to their GP not only because of the concerns that their GP would no longer see them but also because they felt their GP was not knowledgeable about these substances. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Participants in the study reported no difficulty in accessing health services based on living in a regional area, with their concern focused more upon how they were viewed and treated by service staff. [Dunn M, Henshaw R, Mckay F. H. Do performance and image enhancing drug users in regional Queensland experience difficulty accessing health services? Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;35:377-382].
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Dunn
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia.,National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Fiona H McKay
- School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW People who inject drugs (PWID), sex workers, and MSM simultaneously bear a high burden of HIV and stigma and discrimination. The purpose of this review was to summarize recent information about the understanding of the HIV care cascade among PWID, sex workers, and MSM populations around the globe. RECENT FINDINGS A review of the published literature relating to the care cascade in these three key populations was conducted. Data on the care cascade among key populations are sparse, particularly for PWID and sex workers. In the 12 countries in which a study or report of the care cascade was available stratified by these populations, all three populations have care cascade outcomes that are far below the 90-90-90 target set by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) for 2020. Culturally tailored interventions, including colocation of services and peer navigators, can improve care cascade outcomes among key populations. SUMMARY Key populations' care cascade outcomes must be included in international reporting metrics to expand cascade data for these groups. Improving care cascade outcomes in these key populations through culturally tailored interventions should be a priority in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Risher
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kenneth Mayer
- Harvard School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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van Beek I, Chronister KJ. Performance and image enhancing drug injectors' access to needle syringe programs: Responding to a public policy dilemma. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2015; 26:868-74. [PMID: 26118797 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2015.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2015] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of people who inject performance and image enhancing drugs (PIEDs) attending Australian needle syringe programs (NSPs) has increased recently with cost and capacity implications for this already stretched public health program. The need to prioritise populations' NSP access poses dilemmas for a program that has always sought to minimise entry barriers. METHODS To assess their injecting-related risk of HIV and HCV, the Kirketon Road Centre (KRC) surveyed PIEDs injectors attending its two NSPs in inner Sydney in late 2013. Demographic, injecting risk, HIV and HCV testing, and NSP access data were analysed and then compared with similar data collected in the Australian Needle Syringe Program Survey (ANSPS) and the NSW NSP Enhanced Data Collection (NNEDC) survey conducted in the state of NSW in the same time period. RESULTS PIEDs injectors surveyed (n=103) were predominantly male (99%) and only one reported ever receptive needle syringe sharing any injecting equipment. KRC participants were similar to the other survey populations in having rarely ever injected intravenously (6%); being tested for HIV and HCV in the last year (44% and 32% respectively), and reporting low rates of HCV (0%). But they were much more likely to be gay or bisexual (42% vs 2% and 4% in the NSW surveys, p<0.001). Compared to their heterosexual counterparts at KRC, this subgroup was older (35 vs 31 years, p=0.011), and more likely to: have been injecting for <3 years (70% vs 44%, p=0.025); to have ever been tested for HIV (88% vs 46%, p<0.001); to have been tested for HIV and HCV in the last year (72% vs 24%, p<0.001 and 51% vs 19%, p=0.001 respectively); and to report being HIV positive (9% vs 0%, p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS PIEDs injectors with no other risk factors were at low risk of HIV and HCV, informing KRC's more targeted approach to their health needs. This included providing PIEDs-focused health information and promoting more frequent BBI testing, while encouraging injecting equipment access through other legal sources. This is a case study of how evidence can help resolve public policy dilemmas at the local level, thereby ensuring that scarce public health resources continue to be directed towards those people who inject drugs most at risk of BBIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid van Beek
- Kirketon Road Centre, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, PO Box 22, Kings Cross, NSW 1340, Australia; School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Karen J Chronister
- Kirketon Road Centre, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, PO Box 22, Kings Cross, NSW 1340, Australia; Viral Hepatitis Epidemiology and Prevention Program, Kirby Institute, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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Nambiar D, Stoové M, Dietze P. A cross-sectional study describing factors associated with utilisation of GP services by a cohort of people who inject drugs. BMC Health Serv Res 2014; 14:308. [PMID: 25030526 PMCID: PMC4110070 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6963-14-308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2013] [Accepted: 07/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People who inject drugs (PWID) use healthcare services, including primary care, at a disproportionately high rate. We investigated key correlates of general practitioner (GP) related service utilisation within a cohort of PWID. Methods Using baseline data from a cohort of 645 community-recruited PWID based in Melbourne, Victoria, we conducted a secondary analysis of associations between past month use of GP services unrelated to opioid substitution therapy (OST) and socio-demographic and drug use characteristics and self-reported health using multivariate logistic regression. Results Just under one-third (29%) of PWID had accessed GP services in the month prior to being surveyed. Participants who reported living with children (adjusted odds ratio, AOR 1.97, 95% CI 1.04 - 3.73) or having had contact with a social worker in the past month (AOR 1.92, 95% CI 1.24 - 2.98) were more likely to have seen a GP in the past month. Participants who were injecting daily or more frequently (AOR 0.50, 95% CI 0.30 - 0.83) or had a weekly income of less than $400 (AOR 0.59, 95% CI 0.38 - 0.91) were less likely to report having seen a GP in the past month. Conclusions Our sample frequently attended GP services for health needs unrelated to OST. Findings highlight both the characteristics of PWID accessing GP services and also those potentially missing out on primary care and preventive services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhanya Nambiar
- Centre for Population Health, Burnet Institute, 85 Commercial Rd, 3004 Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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Islam MM, Topp L, Conigrave KM, Haber PS, White A, Day CA. Sexually transmitted infections, sexual risk behaviours and perceived barriers to safe sex among drug users. Aust N Z J Public Health 2014; 37:311-5. [PMID: 23895472 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.12077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Drug users are at elevated risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This study examines prevalence of STIs and perceived barriers to safe sex among drug users accessing low-threshold primary healthcare in inner-city Sydney. METHODS Data were extracted manually from clients' medical records and analysed using STATA. RESULTS Prevalence of HIV, syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhoea were low (<2%), whereas hepatitis C (62%), hepatitis A (30%), and previous exposure to hepatitis B (25%) were more common. Recent unprotected vaginal and anal intercourse were reported by 85% and 26% of clients, respectively. Younger clients and those with a history of sex work or recent anal intercourse were more likely to report multiple recent unprotected sex partners. Having a regular sex partner was the most prevalent barrier to condom use (37%), and was more likely to be identified by clients who were older, of Indigenous descent, and/or heterosexual. Drug intoxication was a second important barrier (20%), and was more commonly identified by excessive alcohol users. CONCLUSIONS Targeted programs might increase awareness regarding the benefits of condom use and potential sexual risk associated with regular partners. Periodic assessments of alcohol use, and brief interventions for drug users who report problematic use, should also be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mofizul Islam
- Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute, Australian National University, ACT, Australia.
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