Trends in HIV-Related Services Offered by Substance Abuse Treatment Facilities.

Abstract

Introduction In the United States, persons who inject drugs (PWID) represent an increasingly vulnerable population, with a high risk of HIV transmission related to needle sharing. This paper aims to investigate the availability of HIV-related services within substance abuse treatment facilities while emphasizing the need for implementing comprehensive harm-reduction strategies in such facilities. Methods This study explores the prevalence and trends regarding HIV-related services within substance abuse treatment facilities in the United States including testing, counseling, early intervention, and medication provision. Data from the National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services (N-SSATS) were analyzed in order to assess trends in HIV-related services from 2013 to 2020. Results Facility response rates revealed an increase in the availability of HIV testing and specialized programs for individuals with HIV. However, there was a contrasting trend with the decline in early intervention and counseling services, only with a slight increase in 2020. Additionally, government-owned facilities demonstrated superior performance in delivering HIV services compared to private facilities. Conclusion This study highlights the dire need for implementing routine opt-out HIV testing within substance abuse treatment facilities in order to identify new cases. Additionally emphasized is the importance of early intervention for this at-risk population. To effectively address these challenges, we suggest considering the adoption of the "Seek, Test, Treat, Retain" model as a potential solution. Increasing access to HIV-related services within substance abuse facilities requires enhanced resource allocation as well as integrated programs. Identifying deficiencies in HIV service integration is crucial to enhancing care and reducing HIV transmission among PWID.