From the 2024 Global Conference, held in Thessaloniki, Greece
Author: Mr. Quang Anh Mai
Background: The prevalence of substance use, especially stimulants, among PrEP clients poses a significant public health challenge. To address this, the WeCare Social Enterprise and the Sexual Health Promotion clinic at Hanoi Medical University Hospital have forged a collaborative initiative. This initiative integrates a comprehensive ATS screening and brief intervention within PrEP services to mitigate substance use risks and promote PrEP adherence.
Objectives: The primary objectives of this collaborative model are to diminish substance use within the PrEP client population, with a particular focus on stimulant misuse and enhance adherence to PrEP regimens by introducing ATS screening and integrated mental health support.
Participant Focus: Our model strategically caters to PrEP clients, with a specific emphasis on key populations including MSM, transgender individuals, and those with a history of synthetic drug use. In 2023, WeCare effectively facilitated the enrollment of 960 new PrEP clients at the SHP Clinic, with 45.25% participating in ATS screening. Notably, 35% disclosed experiences related to substance use, receiving brief intervention, and subsequently, .6% accessed specialized treatment.
Integrated ATS Intervention Process: Aligned with the Substance Use Brief Intervention Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) framework, this involves efficient ATS screening utilizing the ASSIST toolkit, brief interventions for moderate or low-risk clients, and referrals for those with high substance use risk.
Technical Support: Implementation units at PrEP clinics receive comprehensive technical support from the Center for Training and Research on Substance Abuse, HIV, Hanoi Medical University.
Conclusion and Follow-up: The intervention sessions include introductions, ATS screening, brief interventions, and referrals. Clients are reminded to return for medication, and information is meticulously logged into Redcap for thorough record-keeping.
Conclusion: This collaborative model represents a pioneering approach to seamlessly integrate substance use intervention within PrEP services.
Keywords: Collaborative model, substance use intervention, PrEP services, ATS screening, SBIRT framework, key populations, public health.