1
|
Dunham K, Hill K, Kazal H, Butner JL, Hull I, Sue K, Li L, Doneski K, Dinges B, Rife-Pennington T, Kung S, Thakarar K. In Support of Overdose Prevention Centers: Position Statement of AMERSA, Inc (Association for Multidisciplinary Education and Research in Substance Use and Addiction). SUBSTANCE USE & ADDICTION JOURNAL 2024; 45:328-336. [PMID: 38747578 DOI: 10.1177/29767342241252590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Given increasing rates of fatal overdoses in the United States and the rapidly changing drug supply, overdose prevention centers (OPCs; also known as safe consumption sites) have been identified as a vital, evidence-based strategy that provide people who use drugs (PWUD) the opportunity to use drugs safely and receive immediate, life-saving overdose support from trained personnel. In addition to providing a safe, supervised space to use drugs, OPCs can house further essential harm reduction drop-in services such as sterile supplies, social services, and medical care. There are established national and international data demonstrating the lifesaving services provided by OPCs, inspiring a groundswell of advocacy efforts to expand these programs in the United States. Thus, the Association for Multidisciplinary Education and Research in Substance Use and Addiction (AMERSA) endorses OPCs, in addition to other harm reduction strategies that protect PWUD. Ultimately, it is imperative to increase access to OPCs across the United States and support key policy changes at the local, state, and federal levels that would facilitate urgent expansion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Dunham
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Katherine Hill
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Hannah Kazal
- Division of Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME, USA
| | - Jenna L Butner
- Department of General Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ilana Hull
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kimberly Sue
- Department of General Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Li Li
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Kristin Doneski
- Harm Reduction Program/Needle Exchange, Portland Public Health, Portland, ME, USA
| | - Beth Dinges
- Pharmacy Service, Veteran Affairs Illiana Healthcare System, Danville, IL, USA
| | - Tessa Rife-Pennington
- Pharmacy Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA
- School of Pharmacy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sunny Kung
- Mass General Brigham Community Physicians, Haverhill, MA, USA
| | - Kinna Thakarar
- Center for Interdisciplinary Population and Health Research/Maine, Portland, ME, USA
- Department of Medicine, Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME, USA
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Maine Medical Partners Adult Infectious Diseases, South Portland, ME, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cousien A, Donadille C, Madrid LB, Maradan G, Jauffret-Roustide M, Lalanne L, Auriacombe M, Roux P, Boyer S. Cost-effectiveness of drug consumption rooms in France: a modelling study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1426. [PMID: 38807111 PMCID: PMC11135012 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18909-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs (PWID) experience many health problems which result in a heavy economic and public health burden. To tackle this issue, France opened two drug consumption rooms (DCRs) in Paris and Strasbourg in 2016. This study assessed their long-term health benefits, costs and cost-effectiveness. METHODS We developed a model to simulate two fictive cohorts for each city (n=2,997 in Paris and n=2,971 in Strasbourg) i) PWID attending a DCR over the period 2016-2026, ii) PWID attending no DCR. The model accounted for HIV and HCV infections, skin abscesses and related infective endocarditis, drug overdoses and emergency department visits. We estimated the number of health events and associated costs over 2016-2026, the lifetime number of quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) and costs, and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). RESULTS The numbers of abscesses and associated infective endocarditis, drug overdoses, and emergency department visits decreased significantly in PWID attending DCRs (-77%, -69%, and -65%, respectively) but the impact on HIV and HCV infections was modest (-11% and -6%, respectively). This resulted in savings of €6.6 (Paris) and €5.8 (Strasbourg) millions of medical costs. The ICER of DRCs was €30,600/QALY (Paris) and €9,200/QALY (Strasbourg). In scenario analysis where drug consumption spaces are implemented inside existing harm reduction structures, these ICERs decreased to €21,400/QALY and €2,500/QALY, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our findings show that DCRs are highly effective and efficient to prevent harms in PWID in France, and advocate extending this intervention to other cities by adding drug consumption spaces inside existing harm reduction centers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Cousien
- Université Paris Cité and Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Inserm, IAME, F-75018, Paris, France.
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France.
| | - Cécile Donadille
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Laélia Briand Madrid
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Gwenaëlle Maradan
- ORS PACA, Observatoire régional de la santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
| | - Marie Jauffret-Roustide
- Centre d'Etudes des Mouvements Sociaux, Inserm U1276, CNRS UMR 8044, EHESS, Paris, France
- British Columbia Center on Substance Use (BCCSU), Vancouver, Canada
- Baldy Center on Law and Social Policy, Buffalo University, New York, USA
- Institut universitaire sur les dépendances, Université de Sherbrooke, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Laurence Lalanne
- UMR 1329, Team Addictions, Centre de recherche en biomédecine de Strasbourg, Department of addiction medicine, University hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Marc Auriacombe
- UMR 6033, Bordeaux University, SANPSY, CNRS, Bordeaux, France
| | - Perrine Roux
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Sylvie Boyer
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Behrends CN, Leff JA, Lowry W, Li JM, Onuoha EN, Fardone E, Bayoumi AM, McCollister KE, Murphy SM, Schackman BR. Economic Evaluations of Establishing Opioid Overdose Prevention Centers in 12 North American Cities: A Systematic Review. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2024; 27:655-669. [PMID: 38401795 PMCID: PMC11069439 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2024.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Overdose prevention centers (OPCs) provide a safe place where people can consume preobtained drugs under supervision so that a life-saving medical response can be provided quickly in the event of an overdose. OPCs are programs that are established in Canada and have recently become legally sanctioned in only a few United States jurisdictions. METHODS We conducted a systematic review that summarizes and identifies gaps of economic evidence on establishing OPCs in North America to guide future expansion of OPCs. RESULTS We included 16 final studies that were evaluated with the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards and Drummond checklists. Eight studies reported cost-effectiveness results (eg, cost per overdose avoided or cost per quality-adjusted life-year), with 6 also including cost-benefit; 5 reported only cost-benefit results, and 3 cost offsets. Health outcomes primarily included overdose mortality outcomes or HIV/hepatitis C virus infections averted. Most studies used mathematical modeling and projected OPC outcomes using the experience of a single facility in Vancouver, BC. CONCLUSIONS OPCs were found to be cost-saving or to have favorable cost-effectiveness or cost-benefit ratios across all studies. Future studies should incorporate the experience of OPCs established in various settings and use a greater diversity of modeling designs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Czarina N Behrends
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Jared A Leff
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Weston Lowry
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jazmine M Li
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Erica N Onuoha
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Erminia Fardone
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ahmed M Bayoumi
- Department of Medicine and Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of General Internal Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kathryn E McCollister
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sean M Murphy
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Bruce R Schackman
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gagnon KW, Bradford W, Bassler J, Nassel A, Kay ES, Jeziorski M, Prados M, McCleskey B, Kobie J, Eaton E. Community-Based Services for Hospitalized Patients With Serious Injection-Related Infections in Alabama: A Brief Report. Open Forum Infect Dis 2024; 11:ofae231. [PMID: 38813257 PMCID: PMC11134460 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofae231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Injection-related infections continue to rise, particularly in the South. People who inject drugs are increasingly utilizing hospital services for serious injection-related infections but may be discharged to areas without harm reduction services. We explored the availability and travel time to services for HIV and substance use in Alabama.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly W Gagnon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - William Bradford
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - John Bassler
- Center for AIDS Research, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Ariann Nassel
- Lister Hill Center for Health Policy, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Emma Sophia Kay
- Department of Acute, Chronic and Continuing Care, School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Madison Jeziorski
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Myles Prados
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Brandi McCleskey
- Department of Pathology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - James Kobie
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Ellen Eaton
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jozaghi E. A new innovative method to measure the cost of war: future with fewer conflicts via harm reduction approaches. COST EFFECTIVENESS AND RESOURCE ALLOCATION 2024; 22:9. [PMID: 38291507 PMCID: PMC10826171 DOI: 10.1186/s12962-024-00517-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The destruction of World War I (WWI) and World War II (WWII) changed the world forever. In this analysis, the economic costs of WWI and WWII are considered via a harm reduction approach to highlight the cost of war via the mortality of military personnel. The harm reduction philosophy and homeostasis of a biological cell are utilized as a pragmatic approach and analogy to give a greater context to the findings, despite the omission of civilian casualties and military disabilities. METHODS Tangible (e.g., loss of wages, productivity, and contributions) and intangible (e.g., quality of life) costs are estimated based on the value of each military personnel derived from secondary data and a mathematical model. This is the first study to estimate the cost of war based on soldier's mortality during the first and second World War. RESULTS Based on the tangible value, the WWI and WWII cost for the military personnel was US$43.204 billion ($13 billion ≤ α ≤ $97 billion) and US$540.112 billion ($44 billion ≤ α ≤ $1 trillion). When the intangible cost is considered, it is estimated that the WWI cost was beyond US$124 trillion ($43 trillion ≤ β ≤ $160 trillion), and the WWII cost was above US$328 trillion ($115 trillion ≤ β ≤ $424 trillion). The sensitivity analyses conducted for WWI and WWII demonstrate different ranges based on tangible and intangible values. CONCLUSIONS In the current climate of increasing hostilities, inequalities, global warming, and an ever-changing world, economic prosperities are directly linked to peace, stability, and security. Therefore, any future decisions for military conflicts need to increasingly consider harm reduction approaches by considering the cost of life and potential disabilities for each nations' soldiers, sailors, and pilots.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Jozaghi
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia, 2199 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Martin NK, Beletsky L, Linas BP, Bayoumi A, Pollack H, Larney S. Modeling as Visioning: Exploring the Impact of Criminal Justice Reform on Health of Populations with Substance Use Disorders. MDM Policy Pract 2023; 8:23814683231202984. [PMID: 37841498 PMCID: PMC10568988 DOI: 10.1177/23814683231202984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In the context of historic reckoning with the role of the criminal-legal system as a structural driver of health harms, there is mounting evidence that punitive drug policies have failed to prevent problematic drug use while fueling societal harms. In this explainer article, we discuss how simulation modeling provides a methodological framework to explore the potential outcomes (beneficial and harmful) of various drug policy alternatives, from incremental to radical. We discuss potential simulation modeling opportunities while calling for a more active role of simulation modeling in visioning and operationalizing transformative change. Highlights This article discusses opportunities for simulation modeling in projecting health and economic impacts (beneficial and harmful) of drug-related criminal justice reforms.We call on modelers to explore radical interventions to reduce drug-related harm and model grand alternative futures in addition to more probable scenarios, with a goal of opening up policy discourse to these options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natasha K. Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Leo Beletsky
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
- School of Law, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, and Health in Justice Action Lab, Northeastern University, USA
| | | | - Ahmed Bayoumi
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Harold Pollack
- Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sarah Larney
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Yeung MEM, Lee CH, Hartmann R, Lang E. Opioid-related emergency department visits and deaths after a harm-reduction intervention: a retrospective observational cohort time series analysis. CMAJ Open 2023; 11:E537-E545. [PMID: 37339791 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20220104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To date, there has been little research on the effect of safe consumption site and community-based naloxone programs on regional opioid-related emergency department visits and deaths. We sought to determine the impact of these interventions on regional opioid-related emergency department visit and death rates in the province of Alberta. METHODS We used a retrospective observational design, via interrupted time series analysis, to assess municipal opioid-related emergency department visit volume and opioid-related deaths (defined by poisoning and opioid use disorder). We compared rates before and after program implementation in individual Alberta municipalities and province-wide after safe consumption site (March 2018 to October 2018) and community-based naloxone (January 2016) program implementation. RESULTS A total of 24 107 emergency department visits and 2413 deaths were included in the study. After safe consumption site opening, we saw decreased opioid-related emergency department visits in Calgary (level change -22.7 [-20%] visits per month, 95% confidence interval [CI] -29.7 to -15.8) and Lethbridge (level change -8.8 [-50%] visits per month, 95% CI -11.7 to -5.9), and decreased deaths in Edmonton (level change -5.9 [-55%] deaths per month, 95% CI -8.9 to -2.9). We observed increased emergency department visits after community-based naloxone program implementation in urban Alberta (level change 38.9 [46%] visits, 95% CI 33.3 to 44.4). We also observed an increase in urban opioid-related deaths (level change 9.1 [40%] deaths, 95% CI 6.7 to 11.5). INTERPRETATION The results of this study suggest differences exist between municipalities employing similar interventions. Our results also suggest contextual variation; for example, illicit drug supply toxicity may modify the ability of a community-based naloxone program to prevent opioid overdose without a thorough public health response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew E M Yeung
- Departments of Emergency Medicine (Yeung, Lang) and Critical Care Medicine (Lee), University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; Department of Emergency Medicine (Hartmann), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Sask.
| | - Chel Hee Lee
- Departments of Emergency Medicine (Yeung, Lang) and Critical Care Medicine (Lee), University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; Department of Emergency Medicine (Hartmann), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Riley Hartmann
- Departments of Emergency Medicine (Yeung, Lang) and Critical Care Medicine (Lee), University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; Department of Emergency Medicine (Hartmann), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Sask
| | - Eddy Lang
- Departments of Emergency Medicine (Yeung, Lang) and Critical Care Medicine (Lee), University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta.; Department of Emergency Medicine (Hartmann), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Sask
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gilgoff JN, Park E, Price J, Scott T, Moyd T, Rouse K, Knighton G, Frey J, Mattocks N, Shook E, Tuten M, Unick J, Wagner FA. Building Equitable Community-Academic Partnerships for Opioid Recovery Research: Lessons Learned from Stakeholder Engagement With Peer and Provider Organizations. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND SCHOLARSHIP 2022; 15:479. [PMID: 36540657 PMCID: PMC9762856 DOI: 10.54656/jces.v15i1.479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Forming equity-based community-academic partnerships focused on recovery research is a time- consuming and challenging endeavor, but one well worth the care and effort required. Through building trusting relationships, vital research collaborations emerge, which are driven by expressed community needs and supported with university resources. This article describes the stakeholder engagement process utilized by a university-based and opioid-focused initiative entitled Innovations in Recovery through Infrastructure Support (IRIS). IRIS developed a diverse and representative network of clinical providers, peer recovery workers, academics, and other behavioral health leaders. The process was informed by community-based participatory research (CBPR) practices and principles aimed at creating equitable partnerships. Lessons learned include the need to reshape the relationship between research and the community through an acknowledgment of harms committed by academia, as well as the importance of maintaining an approach of humility, accountability, and patience with the partnership process. Concrete benefits that go beyond the long-term promise of change, including compensating partners financially for their time, help ensure equity. A commitment to always asking "Who's missing?" and then filling those gaps builds a broad network inclusive of the various constituencies that make up the recovery support system. As IRIS builds on these lessons learned and plans next steps, we share our experience to support others engaged in forming community-academic partnerships through deep stakeholder engagement and use of participatory approaches within and outside of recovery research.
Collapse
|
9
|
Chambers LC, Hallowell BD, Zang X, Rind DM, Guzauskas GF, Hansen RN, Fuchs N, Scagos RP, Marshall BDL. The estimated costs and benefits of a hypothetical supervised consumption site in Providence, Rhode Island. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 108:103820. [PMID: 35973341 PMCID: PMC10131249 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overdose deaths have increased dramatically in the United States, including in Rhode Island. In July 2021, the Rhode Island government passed legislation supporting a two-year pilot program authorizing supervised consumption sites (SCSs) in response to this crisis. We estimated the costs and benefits of a hypothetical SCS in Providence, Rhode Island. METHODS We utilized a decision analytic mathematical model to compare costs and outcomes for people who inject drugs under two scenarios: (1) a SCS that includes syringe services provision, and (2) a syringe service program only (i.e., status quo). We assumed 0.95% of injections result in overdose, the SCS would serve 400 clients monthly and have a net cost of $783,899 annually, 46% of overdoses occurring outside of the SCS result in an ambulance run and 43% result in an emergency department (ED) visit, 0.79% of overdoses occurring within the SCS result in an ambulance run and ED visit, and the SCS would lead to a 25.7% reduction in fatal overdoses near the site. The model was developed from a modified societal perspective with a one-year time horizon. RESULTS A hypothetical SCS in Providence would prevent approximately 2 overdose deaths, 261 ambulance runs, 244 ED visits, and 117 inpatient hospitalizations for emergency overdose care annually compared to a scenario that includes a syringe service program only. The SCS would save $1,104,454 annually compared to the syringe service program only, accounting only for facility costs and short-term costs of emergency overdose care and ignoring savings associated with averted deaths. Influential parameters included the percentage of injections resulting in overdose, the total annual injections at the SCS, and the percentage of overdoses outside of the SCS that result in an ED visit. CONCLUSION A SCS in would result in substantial cost savings due to prevention of costly emergency overdose care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura C Chambers
- Drug Overdose Surveillance Program, Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.
| | - Benjamin D Hallowell
- Drug Overdose Surveillance Program, Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Xiao Zang
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - David M Rind
- Institute for Clinical and Economic Review, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Greg F Guzauskas
- Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy, and Economics Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ryan N Hansen
- Comparative Health Outcomes, Policy, and Economics Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Nathaniel Fuchs
- Drug Overdose Surveillance Program, Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Rachel P Scagos
- Drug Overdose Surveillance Program, Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Brandon D L Marshall
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Knaub RJ, Evans J, Yang C, Roura R, McGinn T, Verschoore B, Ricketts EP, Rothman RE, Latkin CA, Hsieh YH. A pilot study of a mixed-method approach to design an ED-based peer mHealth referral tool for HIV/HCV and opioid overdose prevention services. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 238:109585. [PMID: 35926299 PMCID: PMC9620482 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109585] [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] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The intersecting epidemics of opioid misuse, injection drug use, and HIV/HCV have resulted in record overdose deaths and sustained high levels of HIV/HCV transmissions. Literature on social networks suggests opportunities to connect people who use drugs (PWUD) and their peers to HIV/HCV and opioid overdose prevention services. However, little evidence exists on how to design such peer referral interventions in emergency department (ED) settings. METHODS A mixed-method study was conducted to assess the feasibility of an mHealth-facilitated 'patient to peer social network referral program' for PWUD. In-depth interviews (IDIs) and quantitative surveys were conducted with urban ED patients (n = 15), along with 3 focus group discussions (FGDs) (n = 19). RESULTS Overall, 34 participants were enrolled (71 % males, 53 % Black). 13/15 IDI participants reported a history of opioid overdose; all had witnessed overdose events; all received HIV/HCV testing. From survey responses, most would invite their peers for HIV/HCV testing and naloxone training; and anticipated peers to accept referrals (HIV: 60 %, HCV: 73 %, naloxone: 93 %). Qualitative data showed PWUD shared health-related information with each other but preferred word of mouth rather than text messages. Participants used smartphones regularly and suggested using Internet advertising for prevention services. Participants expressed enthusiasm for ED-based peer mHealth referral platform to prevention services, as well as referring their peers to proposed services, with monetary incentives. CONCLUSION ED-based peer referral intervention to HIV/HCV testing and naloxone training was viewed favorably by PWUD. Frequent smartphone use among PWUD suggests that the medium could be a promising mode for peer referral.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ross J. Knaub
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Julie Evans
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Cui Yang
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Raúl Roura
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Tanner McGinn
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Benjamin Verschoore
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Erin P. Ricketts
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Richard E. Rothman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Carl A. Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A
| | - Yu-Hsiang Hsieh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sherman SG, Rouhani S, White RH, Weicker N, Morris M, Schneider K, Park JN, Barry C. Acceptability of Overdose Prevention Sites in the Business Community in Baltimore, Maryland. J Urban Health 2022; 99:723-732. [PMID: 35610474 PMCID: PMC9129898 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-022-00647-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Intervetions are urgently needed to reduce the trajectory of the US opioid overdose epidemic, yet implementation is often hampered by resistance or opposition from key community stakeholders. While businesses are economically and physically impacted by the opioid epidemic, they are rarely engaged in efforts to reduce its impact. The establishment of overdose prevention sites (OPS) is being discussed throughout many US jurisdictions with limited attention to the potential positive role of businesses in that process. We surveyed business owners and employees of businesses located in neighborhoods with concentrated drug markets. The study's primary aim was to examine their attitudes to locally-placed OPS. An iterative, two-phase sampling strategy was used to identify recruitment zones. In person (December 2019-March 2020) and telephone-based (April-July 2020) surveys were administered to distinct business owners and employees (N = 149). Sixty-five percent of participants supported OPS in their neighborhood and 47% had recently witnessed an overdose in or around their workplace. While 70% had heard of naloxone, and 38% reported having it on the premises. Correlates of supporting an OPS locally included living in the same neighborhood as work (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.99, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.30-3.05); having a more positive attitude towards people who use drugs (aOR 1.33, 95% CI: 1.13-1.58); and having recently seen an overdose in/around the workplace (aOR 2.86, 95% CI: 1.11-7.32). Lack of support being an owner (aOR 0.35, 95% CI: 0.15-0.83). These data indicate the extent to which businesses are directly impacted by the opioid epidemic and the power of personal experience in shaping OPS support in advocacy efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Saba Rouhani
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rebecca Hamilton White
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Noelle Weicker
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Miles Morris
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kristin Schneider
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ju Nyeong Park
- Alpert Medical School, Brown University Division of General Internal Medicine, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Colleen Barry
- Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy, Cornell University, Ithica, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yi G, Dayton L, Uzzi M, Browne K, Konstantopoulos A, Latkin C. Spatial and neighborhood-level correlates of lay naloxone reversal events and service availability. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 106:103739. [PMID: 35691087 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The opioid epidemic in the United States continues to surge, reaching record deaths from opioid and fentanyl overdoses in 2020. This study analyzes spatial and neighborhood correlates of free naloxone distribution sites as well as overdose and naloxone reversal events in Baltimore, Maryland, which has one of the highest overdose rates in the country. METHODS Using data from a randomized clinical trial on HIV prevention among people using substances in Baltimore, Maryland, as well as demographic data from the US Census Bureau, we conducted: (1) exploratory spatial visualizations of census tracts' minimum distance to naloxone distribution sites, (2) univariable Wilcoxon rank-sum tests to compare census tracts on demographic metrics, and (3) bivariable and multivariable negative binomial regression models to assess associations between census tract characteristics and naloxone reversal events. RESULTS Valid geographic data were provided for 518 overdose events involving either fentanyl or heroin in this study. Of these, 190 (37%) attempted naloxone reversal events were reported. Exploratory spatial visualization techniques suggest that most distribution sites are appropriately located near populations at high risk of overdose, but study findings also identify areas where drug use and overdoses occur that are located farther from distribution sites. In multivariable analyses, naloxone administration was significantly and inversely associated with distance to the nearest distribution site (incidence rate ratio (IRR)=0.72 per 1000m increase, 95% CI 0.59-0.89, p=0.002). CONCLUSION Study findings emphasize the correlation between proximity to naloxone sites and utilization of resources, highlighting that physical proximity to harm reduction resources may contribute to uptake. Results further underscore that research on service accessibility and utilization must consider the spatial distribution of health services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grace Yi
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90025.
| | - Lauren Dayton
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mudia Uzzi
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kerry Browne
- Luskin School of Public Policy, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Arianna Konstantopoulos
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carl Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Khair S, Eastwood CA, Lu M, Jackson J. Supervised consumption site enables cost savings by avoiding emergency services: a cost analysis study. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:32. [PMID: 35346223 PMCID: PMC8959556 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00609-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background and aims
We report on a cost analysis study, using population level data to determine the emergency service costs avoided from emergency overdose management at supervised consumption services (SCS).
Design
We completed a cost analysis from a payer’s perspective. In this setting, there is a single-payer model of service delivery.
Setting
In Calgary, Canada, ‘Safeworks Harm Reduction Program’ was established in late 2017 and offers 24/7 access to SCS. The facility is a nurse-led service, available for client drop-in. We conducted a cost analysis for the entire duration of the program from November 2017 to January 2020, a period of 2 years and 3 months.
Methods
We assessed costs using the following factors from government health databases: monthly operational costs of providing services for drug consumption, cost of providing ambulance pre-hospital care for clients with overdoses who could not be revived at the facility, cost of initial treatment in an emergency department, and benefit of costs averted from overdoses that were successfully managed at the SCS.
Results
The proportion of clients who have overdosed at the SCS has decreased steadily for the duration of the program. The number of overdoses that can be managed on site at the SCS has trended upward, currently 98%. Each overdose that is managed at the SCS produces approximately $1600 CAD in cost savings, with a savings of over $2.3 million for the lifetime of the program.
Conclusion
Overdose management at an SCS creates cost savings by offsetting costs required for managing overdoses using emergency department and pre-hospital ambulance services.
Collapse
|
14
|
Factors associated with injury and blood-borne infection risk when providing assisted injection among people who inject drugs. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 97:103297. [PMID: 34077825 PMCID: PMC9844096 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Prior research has associated assisted injection with risk behaviors, but other risks such as injury, missed veins, and incidental exposures to blood-borne infections during an injection episode have not been assessed. In the following, we present the frequency of these other risks and determine factors associated with missing a vein and incidental blood exposure among people who inject drugs (PWID). METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of data from PWID who were recruited using targeted sampling in Los Angeles and San Francisco, California, during 2016 and 2017. The analytic sample consist of 336 participants who reported providing injection assistance in the last 6 months. Multivariate logistic regression models were developed for reporting the following risks: missing a vein; getting the recipient's blood on the injection provider; and getting blood on clothes or surfaces. RESULTS In the last 6 months, the most common negative consequences were getting blood on clothes or surfaces (40%), getting the recipient's blood on the injection provider (23%), and missing a vein (17%). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, missing the vein was significantly associated with higher odds of assisting a leg injection while getting the injection recipient's blood on the provider or getting blood on clothes or nearby surfaces was associated with higher odds of assisting a groin injection injecting in the groin. CONCLUSION Providing injection assistance can result in incidental blood exposures and injury, particularly when injecting in sensitive locations on the body. Harm reduction interventions to reduce risks associated with this practice are essential to improving the well-being of PWID.
Collapse
|
15
|
Association of skin infections with sharing of injection drug preparation equipment among people who inject drugs. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 94:103198. [PMID: 33744668 PMCID: PMC8373634 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sharing needles and injection drug preparation equipment (IDPE) among people who inject drugs (PWID) are well-established risk factors for viral transmission. Shared needles and IDPE may serve as bacterial niduses for skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI). Given the rising rates of SSTI in PWID, we investigated the association of needle and IDPE sharing on incidence of SSTI in a cohort of PWID. METHODS Inpatient PWID (N = 252) were recruited to a randomized controlled trial of an intervention aimed at reducing infections. The primary outcome was self-reported incidence of SSTI one-year post-hospitalization. In this secondary analysis, we assessed two variables: 1) sharing of IDPE alone, 2) sharing needles with or without IDPE, and compared these groups separately to persons who reported no sharing of needles or IDPE via a mixed-effects negative binomial regression model to estimate the effect of baseline sharing behavior on SSTI during follow-up via incidence rate ratios (IRR). RESULTS Participant characteristics: 38 years [mean], 58% male, 60% White, 90% primarily injected opioids, 1.58 (± 2.35) mean SSTI in the year prior to baseline. In terms of sharing behavior, 29% didn't share needles or IDPE, 13% shared IDPE only, and 58% shared needles with or without IDPE three months prior to baseline. After adjusting for co-variables, PWID who shared IDPE alone had a 2.2 fold higher IRR of SSTI (95%CI 1.27; 3.85, p = 0.005) and PWID who shared needles with or without IDPE had a 3.31 fold higher IRR of SSTI (95%CI 2.04; 5.37, p < 0.001), compared to those who did not share any equipment. The number of SSTI at baseline was associated with an IRR of 1.20 of SSTI during follow-up (95%CI 1.09; 1.32, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In this cohort of hospitalized PWID, we found a significant association between baseline sharing of IDPE alone and of sharing of needles with or without IDPE with one-year incidence of SSTI.
Collapse
|
16
|
Rudzinski K, Xavier J, Guta A, Chan Carusone S, King K, Phillips JC, Switzer S, O'Leary B, Baltzer Turje R, Harrison S, de Prinse K, Simons J, Strike C. Feasibility, acceptability, concerns, and challenges of implementing supervised injection services at a specialty HIV hospital in Toronto, Canada: perspectives of people living with HIV. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1482. [PMID: 34325681 PMCID: PMC8323264 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11507-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance use significantly impacts health and healthcare of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV), especially their ability to remain in hospital following admission. Supervised injection services (SIS) reduce overdoses and drug-related harms, but are not often provided within hospitals/outpatient programs. Leading us to question, what are PLHIV's perceptions of hospital-based SIS? METHODS This mixed-methods study explored feasibility and acceptability of implementing SIS at Casey House, a Toronto-based specialty HIV hospital, from the perspective of its in/outpatient clients. We conducted a survey, examining clients' (n = 92) demand for, and acceptability of, hospital-based SIS. Following this, we hosted two focus groups (n = 14) and one-on-one interviews (n = 8) with clients which explored benefits/drawbacks of in-hospital SIS, wherein participants experienced guided tours of a demonstration SIS space and/or presentations of evidence about impacts of SIS. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. RESULTS Among survey participants, 76.1% (n = 70) identified as cis-male and over half (n = 49;54.4%) had been a hospital client for 2 years or less. Nearly half (48.8%) knew about clients injecting in/near Casey House, while 23.6% witnessed it. Survey participants were more supportive of SIS for inpatients (76.1%) than for outpatients (68.5%); most (74.7%) reported SIS implementation would not impact their level of service use at Casey House, while some predicted coming more often (16.1%) and others less often (9.2%). Most focus group/interview participants, believed SIS would enhance safety by reducing health harms (e.g. overdose), increasing transparency between clients and clinicians about substance use, and helping retain clients in care. Debate arose about who (e.g., in/outpatients vs. non-clients) should have access to hospital-based SIS and how implementation may shift organizational priorities/resources away from services not specific to drug use. CONCLUSIONS Our data showed widespread support of, and need for, hospital-based SIS among client stakeholders; however, attempts to reduce negative impacts on non-drug using clients need to be considered in the balance of implementation plans. Given the increased risks of morbidity and mortality for PLHIV who inject drugs as well as the problems in retaining them in care in a hospital setting, SIS is a key component of improving care for this marginalized group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Rudzinski
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada.
| | - Jessica Xavier
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Adrian Guta
- School of Social Work, University of Windsor, 167 Ferry Street, Windsor, ON, N9A 0C5, Canada
| | - Soo Chan Carusone
- Casey House, 119 Isabella St, Toronto, ON, M4Y 1P2, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methodology, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West 2C Area, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K, Canada
| | - Kenneth King
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - J Craig Phillips
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, 190 Laurier Avenue East, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Sarah Switzer
- Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto, 252 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V6, Canada
| | - Bill O'Leary
- Casey House, 119 Isabella St, Toronto, ON, M4Y 1P2, Canada
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street W, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | | | - Scott Harrison
- Providence Health Care - St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | | | - Joanne Simons
- Casey House, 119 Isabella St, Toronto, ON, M4Y 1P2, Canada
| | - Carol Strike
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College St., Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, 209 Victoria St, Toronto, ON, M5B 1T8, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Brooks-Russell A, Brandspigel S, Franco CY, Alishahi ML, Lee-Winn AE. Perceptions of Syringe Service Programs and Supervised Use Sites Among a Sample of Registered Voters in a US State. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2021; 27:361-368. [PMID: 32956293 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The decision to initiate a syringe service program or expand to a supervised use site is often influenced by local public support or opposition. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to better understand public attitudes to local syringe service programs to inform the possibility of expanding services. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS We surveyed a sample of registered voters (n = 690) in the 8 counties in the state of Colorado with existing syringe service programs. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Respondents were asked about their awareness of and attitudes toward syringe service programs and supervised use sites. RESULTS More than three-fourths of respondents reported they were familiar with syringe service programs, but only a quarter knew they were legal, despite all survey respondents living near an operating program. Nearly one in 3 respondents thought a syringe service program or a supervised use site makes a community better, and a majority (57%) thought supervised use sites should be legal in their state. There were significant differences in attitudes toward the benefits and risks of syringe service programs by political party affiliation. CONCLUSION Understanding the level of community knowledge and support for syringe service programs, as well as the reasons for opposition, can be helpful in addressing community concerns when seeking to initiate or expand services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Brooks-Russell
- Departments of Community and Behavioral Health (Dr Brooks-Russell), Epidemiology (Dr Lee-Winn and Ms Alishahi), and Health Policy and Management (Ms Brandspigel), Colorado School of Public Health, and Prevention Research Center for Family and Child Health, Department of Pediatrics (Ms Franco), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Valencia J, Troya J, Lazarus JV, Cuevas G, Alvaro-Meca A, Torres J, Gardeta C, Lozano D, Moreno S, Ryan P. Recurring Severe Injection-Related Infections in People Who Inject Drugs and the Need for Safe Injection Sites in Madrid, Spain. Open Forum Infect Dis 2021; 8:ofab251. [PMID: 34250189 PMCID: PMC8266667 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofab251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An estimated 58 749 people with opioid use disorder engaged in opioid agonist therapy (OAT) in 1132 centers in Spain during 2017. We aimed to calculate the incidence of severe injection-related infections in people who inject drugs (PWID) engaged in OAT in harm reduction settings without a safe consumption space. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was performed in PWID engaged in OAT and in a mobile harm reduction unit to quantify admissions to a referral hospital for any severe injection-related infections between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2019. A Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was used to assess factors associated with any severe injection-related infection. RESULTS Two hundred thirty-seven PWID who engaged in OAT were included in the study. After a median follow-up of 5.5 months (interquartile range [IQR], 1.3-22.7 months), a total of 104 episodes of severe injection-related infections occurred among 56 individuals, and admission due to a second event occurred in 35.7% of this same group. The incidence density of any type of severe injection-related infection was 26.8 (95% confidence interval [CI], 20.2-34.8) episodes per 100 person-years, and the incidence density of complicated skin and soft tissue infections that required hospital admission was 20.4 (95% CI, 15.0-27.3) episodes per 100 person-years. Fifty-six (53.8%) of all the episodes were patient-directed discharge (PDD), and people who had 2 or more hospital admissions had a higher PDD frequency. CONCLUSIONS Severe injection-related infections remain highly prevalent among PWID cared for in a harm reduction setting without a safe consumption space. PDD was more frequent among higher-risk individuals who presented 2 or more hospital readmissions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Valencia
- Harm Reduction Unit “SMASD,” Addictions and Mental Health Department, Madrid, Spain
- Internal Medicine Service, University Hospital Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Troya
- Internal Medicine Service, University Hospital Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona,Spain
| | - Guillermo Cuevas
- Internal Medicine Service, University Hospital Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro Alvaro-Meca
- Unit of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Torres
- Internal Medicine Service, University Hospital Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Gardeta
- Harm Reduction Unit “SMASD,” Addictions and Mental Health Department, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Lozano
- Harm Reduction Unit “SMASD,” Addictions and Mental Health Department, Madrid, Spain
| | - Santiago Moreno
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ramon y Cajal Hospital, IRYCIS, University of Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Ryan
- Internal Medicine Service, University Hospital Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain
- School of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Gregorio Marañón Health Research Institute, Madrid,Spain
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Thakarar K, Nenninger K, Agmas W. Harm Reduction Services to Prevent and Treat Infectious Diseases in People Who Use Drugs. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2021; 34:605-620. [PMID: 32782104 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2020.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
This article reviews the principles of harm reduction, evidence-based harm reduction strategies such as syringe service programs and supervised injection facilities, and provides approaches to integrating a harm reduction approach into clinical practice. As providers strive to increase capacity to treat underlying substance use disorder, we must also recognize that some people may continue to use drugs. In this setting, providers can still deliver nonjudgmental, individualized care, and advocate for the health and safety of people who inject drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kinna Thakarar
- Infectious Disease and Addiction Medicine, Maine Medical Center/Tufts University School of Medicine, 50 Foden Road, South Portland, ME 04106, USA.
| | - Katherine Nenninger
- Preventive Medicine, Maine Medical Center/Tufts University School of Medicine, 22 Bramhall Street, Portland, ME 04102, USA
| | - Wollelaw Agmas
- Infectious Disease, Maine Medical Center/Tufts University School of Medicine, 22 Bramhall Street, Portland, ME 04102, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hodder SL, Feinberg J, Strathdee SA, Shoptaw S, Altice FL, Ortenzio L, Beyrer C. The opioid crisis and HIV in the USA: deadly synergies. Lancet 2021; 397:1139-1150. [PMID: 33617769 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00391-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The opioid epidemic is one of the greatest public health problems that the USA faces. Opioid overdose death rates have increased steadily for more than a decade and doubled in 2013-17, as the highly potent synthetic opioid fentanyl entered the drug supply. Demographics of new HIV diagnoses among people who inject drugs are also changing, with more new HIV diagnoses occurring among White people, young people (aged 13-34 years), and people who reside outside large central metropolitan areas. Racial differences also exist in syringe sharing, which decreased among Black people and Hispanic people but remained unchanged among White people in 2005-15. Recent HIV outbreaks have occurred in rural areas of the USA, as well as among marginalised people in urban areas with robust HIV prevention and treatment services (eg, Seattle, WA). Multiple evidence-based interventions can effectively treat opioid use disorder and prevent HIV acquisition. However, considerable barriers exist precluding delivery of these solutions to many people who inject drugs. If the USA is serious about HIV prevention among this group, stigma must be eliminated, discriminatory policies must change, and comprehensive health care must be accessible to all. Finally, root causes of the opioid epidemic such as hopelessness need to be identified and addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sally L Hodder
- West Virginia Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University Health Sciences Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA.
| | - Judith Feinberg
- West Virginia Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University Health Sciences Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Chris Beyrer
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
PARK JUNYEONG, ROUHANI SABA, BELETSKY LEO, VINCENT LOUISE, SALONER BRENDAN, SHERMAN SUSANG. Situating the Continuum of Overdose Risk in the Social Determinants of Health: A New Conceptual Framework. Milbank Q 2020; 98:700-746. [PMID: 32808709 PMCID: PMC7482387 DOI: 10.1111/1468-0009.12470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Policy Points This article reconceptualizes our understanding of the opioid epidemic and proposes six strategies that address the epidemic's social roots. In order to successfully reduce drug-related mortality over the long term, policymakers and public health leaders should develop partnerships with people who use drugs, incorporate harm reduction interventions, and reverse decades of drug criminalization policies. CONTEXT Drug overdose is the leading cause of injury-related death in the United States. Synthetic opioids, predominantly illicit fentanyl and its analogs, surpassed prescription opioids and heroin in associated mortality rates in 2016. Unfortunately, interventions fail to fully address the current wave of the opioid epidemic and often omit the voices of people with lived experiences regarding drug use. Every overdose death is a culmination of a long series of policy failures and lost opportunities for harm reduction. METHODS In this article, we conducted a scoping review of the opioid literature to propose a novel framework designed to foreground social determinants more directly into our understanding of this national emergency. The "continuum of overdose risk" framework is our synthesis of the global evidence base and is grounded in contemporary theories, models, and policies that have been successfully applied both domestically and internationally. FINDINGS De-escalating overdose risk in the long term will require scaling up innovative and comprehensive solutions that have been designed through partnerships with people who use drugs and are rooted in harm reduction. CONCLUSIONS Without recognizing the full drug-use continuum and the role of social determinants, the current responses to drug overdose will continue to aggravate the problem they are trying to solve.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - LEO BELETSKY
- School of Law and Bouvé College of Health SciencesNortheastern University
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
'I could have went down a different path': Talking to people who used drugs problematically and service providers about Irish drug policy alternatives. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 84:102891. [PMID: 32771917 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who use drugs problematically are consistently left out of consultations and deliberation on drug policy. This article explores how people who formerly used drugs problematically and service providers view Ireland's current drug policy and if alternative policies could be successful in an Irish context. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight people who used drugs problematically and six practitioners working with people who use drugs in Cork city, Ireland. All people who used drugs problematically had at least one year of abstinence and had been criminalised because of their drug use, all but one had served at least one custodial sentence. Participants were asked their opinions on safe injecting facilities, heroin assisted treatment, decriminalisation of drugs for personal use, depenalisation of cannabis and, the relationships between economic deprivation and problematic drug use. RESULTS Respondents stressed that, in Cork city, problematic drug use is closely linked with economic deprivation and social exclusion. There was a near consensus that criminalisation and penalisation do not deter consumption and produce unintended consequences. All participants supported safe injecting facilities and the decriminalisation of drugs for personal use. Participants were less certain about the utility of heroin assisted treatment and depenalisation of cannabis. Many discussions drifted away from alternatives policies towards the need for improved treatment provision. CONCLUSION Several participants were clear that none of the alternative policies discussed are silver bullets. Participates felt that, while they could reduce the harms caused by drugs and drug policies, the government's longer-term objectives should be increased treatment provision and, reduced social exclusion and economic deprivation.
Collapse
|
23
|
Offiong A, Powell TW, Lewis Q, Smith B, Prioleau M. "I missed open arms": The Need for Connectedness among Black Youth Affected by Parental Drug Use. CHILDREN AND YOUTH SERVICES REVIEW 2020; 114:105072. [PMID: 32606485 PMCID: PMC7326313 DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2020.105072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Parental drug use has significant impacts on the physical, behavioral and social well-being of adolescents, particularly those from disenfranchised communities. We conducted a qualitative study to understand connectedness among Black adolescents affected by parental drug use in Baltimore, Maryland. In-depth interviews (N=30) were conducted with three groups: parents with a history of drug use, youth (18-24yo) who had a biological parent with a history of drug use and youth providers with experience working with families affected by drug use. Data were analyzed inductively using a content analytic approach. Three salient themes emerged: (1) missing parental connections, (2) the desire for consistent, trusted adults and (3) the consequences of missed connections. All participants emphasized the limited emotional support and guidance provided to youth affected by parental drug use. However, extended family members (e.g., grandmothers, aunts, and older siblings) and community mentors stepped in to fulfill unmet needs, when possible. The consequences of missed connections were increased involvement in risky behaviors, fewer basic necessities and a missed childhood. Findings from the study deepen the understanding of how to support the well-being of youth impacted by parental drug use and highlight the value of including the voices of vulnerable families in research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asari Offiong
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore MD USA 21215
| | - Terrinieka W. Powell
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore MD USA 21215
| | - Quiana Lewis
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore MD USA 21215
| | - Bianca Smith
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore MD USA 21215
| | - Morgan Prioleau
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore MD USA 21215
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Rouhani S, White RH, Park JN, Sherman SG. High willingness to use overdose prevention sites among female sex workers in Baltimore, Maryland. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 212:108042. [PMID: 32416474 PMCID: PMC9426862 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.108042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overdose Prevention Sites (OPS) operate worldwide as spaces where people can consume previously purchased drugs under supervision, and are linked to reductions in HIV/HCV transmission and fatal overdoses. As the United States weighs their merits and legality, research is needed to estimate acceptability and use among populations at high risk for overdose. We examine willingness to use OPS among street-based female sex workers (FSW) with prevalent drug use and associated morbidities. METHODS We describe self-reported willingness, barriers and conditions around use of a hypothetical OPS among 141 FSW engaged in active drug use in Baltimore City, and describe trends using Pearson's χ2 and Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS Most women had history of overdose (55 %) and were likely to use OPS (77 %). Willingness was higher among women who: were sexual minorities (97 %;P=0.002),experienced homelessness (82 %;P=0.019), injected drugs (82 %;P=0.013), shared syringes (82 %;P=0.007), experienced sexual violence (92 %;P=0.045) or reported heroin use (83 %;P=0.039) in the past 3 months. Common anticipated barriers included transportation (45 %) and fear of arrest (41 %). CONCLUSIONS This study highlights a population of uniquely high-risk women who would benefit from an OPS integrated with other services. Conditions and barriers discussed are informative for planning and implementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saba Rouhani
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States; Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, United States.
| | - Rebecca Hamilton White
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Ju Nyeong Park
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| | - Susan G. Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Jozaghi E. The Opioid Epidemic: Task-Shifting in Health Care and the Case for Access to Harm Reduction for People Who Use Drugs. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SERVICES 2020; 52:261-268. [PMID: 32268811 DOI: 10.1177/0020731420914820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
We are sadly experiencing unprecedented levels of overdose mortalities attributed to the increased availability of synthetic opioids in illegal markets. While the majority of attention in North America has focused on preventing drug overdose cases through the distribution and administration of naloxone, in addition to stricter regulations of opioid prescriptions and greater law enforcement in illegal markets, little attention has been given to other alternative models and treatments for people who use drugs that are tailored specifically to the health care needs of this marginalized population. Through this analysis, the implications of task-shifting in health care via the distribution of naloxone for an already marginalized population are discussed. Alternatively, the role of pioneering harm-reduction programs - such as supervised injection/consumption sites, a variety of opioids maintenance therapies, and social-structural interventions - are highlighted as crucial interventions in the current ongoing opioid crisis. Moreover, people with lived experiences of illegal drug use are discussed as having a pivotal role but being ultimately overshadowed by public health partners.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Jozaghi
- The School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Behrends CN, Paone D, Nolan ML, Tuazon E, Murphy SM, Kapadia SN, Jeng PJ, Bayoumi AM, Kunins HV, Schackman BR. Estimated impact of supervised injection facilities on overdose fatalities and healthcare costs in New York City. J Subst Abuse Treat 2019; 106:79-88. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2019.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
27
|
O'Rourke A, White RH, Park JN, Rodriguez K, Kilkenny ME, Sherman SG, Allen ST. Acceptability of safe drug consumption spaces among people who inject drugs in rural West Virginia. Harm Reduct J 2019; 16:51. [PMID: 31470864 PMCID: PMC6717345 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-019-0320-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim Safe consumption spaces (SCS) are indoor environments in which people can use drugs with trained personnel on site to provide overdose reversal and risk reduction services. SCS have been shown to reduce fatal overdoses, decrease public syringe disposal, and reduce public drug consumption. Existing SCS research in the USA has explored acceptability for the hypothetical use of SCS, but primarily among urban populations of people who inject drugs (PWID). Given the disproportionate impact of the opioid crisis in rural communities, this research examines hypothetical SCS acceptability among a rural sample of PWID in West Virginia. Methods Data were drawn from a 2018 cross-sectional survey of PWID (n = 373) who reported injection drug use in the previous 6 months and residence in Cabell County, West Virginia. Participants were asked about their hypothetical use of a SCS with responses dichotomized into two groups, likely and unlikely SCS users. Chi-square and t tests were conducted to identify differences between likely and unlikely SCS users across demographic, substance use, and health measures. Results Survey participants were 59.5% male, 83.4% non-Hispanic White, and 79.1% reported likely hypothetical SCS use. Hypothetical SCS users were significantly (p < .05) more likely to have recently (past 6 months) injected cocaine (38.3% vs. 25.7%), speedball (41.0% vs. 24.3%), and to report preferring drugs containing fentanyl (32.5% vs. 20.3%). Additionally, likely SCS users were significantly more likely to have recently experienced an overdose (46.8% vs. 32.4%), witnessed an overdose (78.3% vs. 60.8%), and received naloxone (51.2% vs. 37.8%). Likely SCS users were less likely to have borrowed a syringe from a friend (34.6% vs. 48.7%). Conclusions Rural PWID engaging in high-risk behaviors perceive SCS as an acceptable harm reduction strategy. SCS may be a viable option to reduce overdose fatalities in rural communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allison O'Rourke
- DC Center for AIDS Research, Department of Psychology, George Washington University, 2125 G St. NW, Washington, DC, 20052, USA.
| | - Rebecca Hamilton White
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Ju Nyeong Park
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Kayla Rodriguez
- Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, 1249 15th Street, Huntington, WV, 25701, USA
| | - Michael E Kilkenny
- Cabell-Huntington Health Department, 703 7th Ave, Huntington, WV, 25701, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Sean T Allen
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Nonviral Injection-Related Injuries in Persons Who Inject Drugs: Skin and Soft Tissue Infection, Vascular Damage, and Wounds. Adv Skin Wound Care 2019; 32:301-310. [DOI: 10.1097/01.asw.0000559612.06067.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
29
|
Abstract
The ongoing syndemic of substance use disorder and human immunodeficiency virus infection threatens progress made in preventing new infections and improving outcomes among those infected. To address this challenge effectively, human immunodeficiency virus physicians must take an increased role in the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of substance use disorders. Such treatment decreases human immunodeficiency virus risk behaviors and improves human immunodeficiency virus and substance use disorder-related outcomes. An effective response to this syndemic requires increased access to adjuvant interventions and a radical movement away from the current stigmatization and criminalization of those suffering from substance use disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Bositis
- Greater Lawrence Family Health Center, 34 Haverhill Street, Lawrence, MA 01841, USA.
| | - Joshua St Louis
- Lawrence Family Medicine Residency, 34 Haverhill Street, Lawrence, MA 01841, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Park JN, Sherman SG, Rouhani S, Morales KB, McKenzie M, Allen ST, Marshall BDL, Green TC. Willingness to Use Safe Consumption Spaces among Opioid Users at High Risk of Fentanyl Overdose in Baltimore, Providence, and Boston. J Urban Health 2019; 96:353-366. [PMID: 31168735 PMCID: PMC6565790 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-019-00365-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Safe consumption spaces (SCS) are evidence-based interventions that reduce drug-related morbidity and mortality operating in many countries. However, SCS are yet to be widely implemented in the USA despite the escalating overdose epidemic. The aim of this multi-city study was to identify the factors associated with willingness to use a SCS among people who use drugs (PWUD) in Baltimore, Providence, and Boston, stratified by injection drug use status. Our secondary aim was to characterize the anticipated barriers to accessing SCS if they were to be implemented in these cities. PWUD were invited to complete a cross-sectional survey in 2017. The analysis was restricted to 326 opioid users (i.e., heroin, fentanyl, and non-medical opioid pill use). The majority (77%) of participants expressed willingness to use a SCS (Baltimore, 78%; Providence, 68%; Boston. 84%). Most respondents were male (59%), older than 35 years (76%), non-white (64%), relied on public/semi-public settings to inject (60%), had a history of overdose (64%), and recently suspected fentanyl contamination of their drugs (73%). A quarter (26%) preferred drugs containing fentanyl. Among injectors, female gender, racial minority status, suspicion of drugs containing fentanyl, and drug use in public/semi-public settings were associated with higher willingness to use a SCS; prior arrest was associated with lower willingness. Among non-injectors, racial minority status, preference for fentanyl, and drug use in public/semi-public settings were associated with higher willingness, whereas recent overdose held a negative association. The most commonly anticipated barriers to accessing a SCS in the future were concerns around arrest (38%), privacy (34%), confidentiality/trust/safety (25%), and cost/time/transportation (16%). These data provide evidence of high SCS acceptability among high-risk PWUD in the USA, including those who prefer street fentanyl. As SCS are implemented in the USA, targeted engagement efforts may be required to reach individuals exposed to the criminal justice system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ju Nyeong Park
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Saba Rouhani
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kenneth B Morales
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michelle McKenzie
- Miriam Hospital and The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sean T Allen
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Brandon D L Marshall
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Traci C Green
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Belackova V, Salmon AM, Day CA, Ritter A, Shanahan M, Hedrich D, Kerr T, Jauncey M. Drug consumption rooms: A systematic review of evaluation methodologies. Drug Alcohol Rev 2019; 38:406-422. [PMID: 30938025 DOI: 10.1111/dar.12919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
ISSUES Drug consumptions rooms (DCR) and supervised injecting facilities (SIF) are expanding internationally. Previous reviews have not systematically addressed evaluation methodologies. APPROACH Results from systematic searches of scientific databases in English until June 2017 were coded for paper type, country and year of publication. For evaluation papers, study outcome, methodology/study design and main indicators of DCR/SIF 'exposure' were recorded. KEY FINDINGS Two hundred and nineteen eligible peer-reviewed papers were published since 1999: the majority from Canada (n = 117 papers), Europe (n = 36) and Australia (n = 32). Fifty-six papers reported evaluation outcomes. Ecological study designs (n = 10) were used to assess the impact on overdose, public nuisance and crime; modelling techniques (n = 6) estimated impact on blood-borne diseases, overdose deaths and costs. Papers using individual-level data included four prospective cohorts (n = 28), cross-sectional surveys (n = 7) and service records (n = 5). Individual-level data were used to assess safer injecting practice, uptake into health and social services and all the other above outcomes except for impact on crime and costs. Four different indicators of DCR/SIF attendance were used to measure service 'exposure'. IMPLICATIONS Research around DCRs/SIFs has used ecological, modelling, cross-sectional and cohort study designs. Further research could involve systematic inclusion of a control group of people who are eligible but do not access SIFs, validation of self-reported proportion of injections at SIFs or a stepped-wedge or a cluster trial comparing localities. CONCLUSIONS Methodologies appropriate for DCR/SIF evaluation have been established and can be readily replicated from the existing literature. Research on operational aspects, implementation and transferability is also warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Allison M Salmon
- Uniting Medically Supervised Injecting Centre, Sydney, Australia
| | - Carolyn A Day
- Central Clinical School, Addiction Medicine, University of Sydney, Royal Prince Albert Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alison Ritter
- Drug Policy Modelling Program, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Marian Shanahan
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Dagmar Hedrich
- European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Marianne Jauncey
- Uniting Medically Supervised Injecting Centre, Sydney, Australia.,National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kennedy-Hendricks A, Bluestein J, Kral AH, Barry CL, Sherman SG. Establishing Sanctioned Safe Consumption Sites in the United States: Five Jurisdictions Moving the Policy Agenda Forward. Psychiatr Serv 2019; 70:294-301. [PMID: 30755131 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ps.201800398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Safe consumption sites enable use of preobtained drugs in hygienic settings where trained staff are available to respond to overdoses and connect individuals with health and social services. This study examined efforts to advance policies to establish safe consumption sites in the United States, where no sanctioned sites exist. METHODS Between April and July 2018, the authors conducted 25 telephone interviews with a purposive sample of key informants in five communities considering safe consumption site implementation. Participants included organizers and advocates, government officials, and personnel with social service and health organizations. Interview notes were analyzed by using hybrid inductive-deductive coding. RESULTS Key strategies for organizing support for safe consumption sites included involving people who use drugs, engaging diverse partners, supporting allies in related causes, and using various tactics to garner support from policy makers. Major barriers to adoption included identifying the right locations, uncertainty about the federal response, mistrust arising from racial injustice in drug policy, and financing. Participants identified facilitators of progress toward safe consumption site adoption, such as building on existing harm reduction programs, securing political champions, and exposing community officials to programs operating internationally. CONCLUSIONS A window of opportunity may be opening to advance policy related to safe consumption sites; whether sanctioned sites become part of the broader policy strategy for addressing drug use and overdose in the United States will depend on the experiences of the first sites. Organizing around this issue may facilitate engagement among people who use drugs in broader conversations about drug policy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alene Kennedy-Hendricks
- Department of Health Policy and Management (Kennedy-Hendricks, Bluestein, Barry), Center for Mental Health and Addiction Policy Research (Kennedy-Hendricks, Bluestein, Barry, Sherman), and Department of Health Behavior and Society (Sherman), all at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore; Behavioral Health and Criminal Justice Division, RTI International, San Francisco (Kral)
| | - Jenna Bluestein
- Department of Health Policy and Management (Kennedy-Hendricks, Bluestein, Barry), Center for Mental Health and Addiction Policy Research (Kennedy-Hendricks, Bluestein, Barry, Sherman), and Department of Health Behavior and Society (Sherman), all at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore; Behavioral Health and Criminal Justice Division, RTI International, San Francisco (Kral)
| | - Alex H Kral
- Department of Health Policy and Management (Kennedy-Hendricks, Bluestein, Barry), Center for Mental Health and Addiction Policy Research (Kennedy-Hendricks, Bluestein, Barry, Sherman), and Department of Health Behavior and Society (Sherman), all at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore; Behavioral Health and Criminal Justice Division, RTI International, San Francisco (Kral)
| | - Colleen L Barry
- Department of Health Policy and Management (Kennedy-Hendricks, Bluestein, Barry), Center for Mental Health and Addiction Policy Research (Kennedy-Hendricks, Bluestein, Barry, Sherman), and Department of Health Behavior and Society (Sherman), all at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore; Behavioral Health and Criminal Justice Division, RTI International, San Francisco (Kral)
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health Policy and Management (Kennedy-Hendricks, Bluestein, Barry), Center for Mental Health and Addiction Policy Research (Kennedy-Hendricks, Bluestein, Barry, Sherman), and Department of Health Behavior and Society (Sherman), all at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore; Behavioral Health and Criminal Justice Division, RTI International, San Francisco (Kral)
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Saloner B, McGinty EE, Beletsky L, Bluthenthal R, Beyrer C, Botticelli M, Sherman SG. A Public Health Strategy for the Opioid Crisis. Public Health Rep 2019; 133:24S-34S. [PMID: 30426871 PMCID: PMC6243441 DOI: 10.1177/0033354918793627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug overdose is now the leading cause of injury death in the United States. Most overdose fatalities involve opioids, which include prescription medication, heroin, and illicit fentanyl. Current data reveal that the overdose crisis affects all demographic groups and that overdose rates are now rising most rapidly among African Americans. We provide a public health perspective that can be used to mobilize a comprehensive local, state, and national response to the opioid crisis. We argue that framing the crisis from a public health perspective requires considering the interaction of multiple determinants, including structural factors (eg, poverty and racism), the inadequate management of pain, and poor access to addiction treatment and harm-reduction services (eg, syringe services). We propose a novel ecological framework for harmful opioid use that provides multiple recommendations to improve public health and clinical practice, including improved data collection to guide resource allocation, steps to increase safer prescribing, stigma-reduction campaigns, increased spending on harm reduction and treatment, criminal justice policy reform, and regulatory changes related to controlled substances. Focusing on these opportunities provides the greatest chance of making a measured and sustained impact on overdose and related harms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brendan Saloner
- 1 Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Emma E McGinty
- 1 Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Leo Beletsky
- 2 School of Law and the Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
- 3 School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Ricky Bluthenthal
- 4 Department of Preventive Medicine and the Institute for Prevention Research at the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Chris Beyrer
- 5 Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michael Botticelli
- 1 Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- 5 Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- 6 Grayken Center for Addiction at Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- 7 Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Cepeda JA, Astemborski J, Kirk GD, Celentano DD, Thomas DL, Mehta SH. Rising role of prescription drugs as a portal to injection drug use and associated mortality in Baltimore, Maryland. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0213357. [PMID: 30830944 PMCID: PMC6398863 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0213357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prescription drug abuse is a major public health problem in rural and suburban areas of the United States, however its emergence in large urban settings with endemic injection drug use remains understudied. We examined temporal trends in injection drug use initiation and mortality among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Baltimore, Maryland. METHODS Data were derived from the baseline assessment of PWID enrolled in a community-based cohort study with longitudinal follow-up for mortality assessment. PWID were recruited from 2005-2008 (N = 1,008) and 2015-2018 (N = 737). We compared characteristics by birth cohort (before/after 1980) and type of drug initiated (prescription opioids, prescription non-opioids, non-injection illicit drugs, or injection drugs). We calculated standardized mortality ratios (SMR) using the US general population as the reference. RESULTS PWID born after 1980 were more likely to initiate drug use with prescription opioids and non-opioids and had higher levels of polysubstance prior to injection initiation, compared to individuals born before 1980. Overall mortality was high: 2.59 per 100 person-years (95% CI: 2.27-2.95 per 100 person-years). Compared to the US population, the highest SMRs were observed among participants between 40-44 years of age, with especially high mortality among women in this age group (SMR:29.89, 95% CI: 15.24-44.54). CONCLUSIONS Mirroring national trends, the profile of PWID in Baltimore has changed with increased prescription drug abuse and high levels of polysubstance use among younger PWID. Interventions need to reach those using prescription drugs early after initiation of use in order to reduce transition to injecting. Urgent attention is warranted to address premature mortality, particularly among middle-aged and female PWID.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javier A. Cepeda
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Jacquie Astemborski
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Gregory D. Kirk
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - David D. Celentano
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - David L. Thomas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Shruti H. Mehta
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Hood JE, Behrends CN, Irwin A, Schackman BR, Chan D, Hartfield K, Hess J, Banta-Green C, Whiteside L, Finegood B, Duchin J. The projected costs and benefits of a supervised injection facility in Seattle, WA, USA. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 67:9-18. [PMID: 30802842 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As one strategy to improve the health and survival of people who inject drugs, the King County Heroin & Opioid Addiction Task Force recommended the establishment of supervised injection facilities (SIF) where people can inject drugs in a safe and hygienic environment with clinical supervision. Analyses for other sites have found them to be cost-effective, but it is not clear whether these findings are transferable to other settings. METHODS We utilized local estimates and other data sources deemed appropriate for our setting to implement a mathematical model that assesses the impact of a hypothetical SIF on overdose deaths, non-fatal overdose health service utilization, skin and soft tissue infections, bacterial infections, viral infections, and enrollment in medication assisted treatment (MAT). We estimated the costs and savings that would occur on an annual basis for a small-scale pilot site given current overdose rates, as well as three other scenarios of varying scale and underlying overdose rates. RESULTS Assuming current overdose rates, a hypothetical Seattle SIF in a pilot phase is projected to annually reverse 167 overdoses and prevent 6 overdose deaths, 45 hospitalizations, 90 emergency department visits, and 92 emergency medical service deployments. Additionally, the site would facilitate the enrollment of 41 SIF clients in medication assisted treatment programs. These health benefits correspond to a monetary value of $5,156,019. The annual estimated cost of running the SIF is $1,222,332. The corresponding cost-benefit ratio suggests that the pilot SIF would generate $4.22 for every dollar spent on SIF operational costs. The pilot SIF is projected to save the healthcare system $534,453. If Seattle experienced elevated overdose rates and Seattle SIF program were scaled up, the health benefits and financial value would be considerably greater. CONCLUSION This analysis suggests that a SIF program in Seattle would save lives and result in considerable health benefits and cost savings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J E Hood
- Public Health - Seattle & King County, 401 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1250, Seattle, WA, United States.
| | - C N Behrends
- Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Ave. Box 65, New York, NY, 10065, United States
| | - A Irwin
- Law Enforcement Action Partnership, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | - B R Schackman
- Weill Cornell Medical College, 1300 York Ave. Box 65, New York, NY, 10065, United States
| | - D Chan
- King County Department of Community and Health Services, 401 Fifth Avenue, Suite 500, Seattle, WA, United States; University of Washington, School of Public Health, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA, 98195, United States
| | - K Hartfield
- Public Health - Seattle & King County, 401 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1250, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - J Hess
- University of Washington, School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA, 98195, United States
| | - C Banta-Green
- University of Washington, School of Public Health, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA, 98195, United States
| | - L Whiteside
- University of Washington, School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA, 98195, United States
| | - B Finegood
- King County Department of Community and Health Services, 401 Fifth Avenue, Suite 500, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - J Duchin
- Public Health - Seattle & King County, 401 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1250, Seattle, WA, United States; University of Washington, School of Public Health, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA, 98195, United States; University of Washington, School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA, 98195, United States
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Wolfson-Stofko B, Elliott L, Bennett AS, Curtis R, Gwadz M. Perspectives on supervised injection facilities among service industry employees in New York City: A qualitative exploration. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 62:67-73. [PMID: 30359875 PMCID: PMC6279482 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 100 supervised injection facilities (SIFs) operate in 66 cities around the world to reduce overdose deaths, the spread of disease and public disorder, though none legally exist in the United States. Public bathrooms are among the most common public places for injection reported by people who inject drugs in New York City (NYC) and service industry employees (SIEs) inadvertently become first-responders when overdoses occur in business bathrooms. The goal of this study was to assess SIE acceptability of SIFs and the perceived effects that SIFs would have on them, their colleagues, their businesses and communities. METHODS Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 15 SIEs recruited through convenience sampling throughout NYC. Participants were provided with peer-reviewed scientific evidence prior to discussing SIFs. Data were analysed using a hybrid deductive and inductive approach. RESULTS Most SIEs had encountered drug use (93%, n = 14/15) and syringes (73%, n = 11/15) in their business bathrooms and three had encountered unresponsive individuals. Nearly all workers (93%, n = 14/15) were supportive of SIFs and believed SIFs would reduce injection drug use in their business bathrooms. Participants also believed that 'not in my backyard' arguments from community boards may impede SIF operation. CONCLUSIONS Service industry employees are critical stakeholders due to their exposure to occupational health hazards related to public injection. Those interviewed were amenable to SIF operation as a form of occupational harm reduction and their experiences provide an important dimension to the political debate surrounding SIFs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brett Wolfson-Stofko
- Center for Drug Use and HIV Research, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10010, United States; National Development & Research Institute, Center on Community and Health Disparities Research, 71 W. 23rd St, 4th Fl, New York, NY, 10010, United States.
| | - Luther Elliott
- Center for Drug Use and HIV Research, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10010, United States; National Development & Research Institute, Center on Community and Health Disparities Research, 71 W. 23rd St, 4th Fl, New York, NY, 10010, United States
| | - Alex S Bennett
- Center for Drug Use and HIV Research, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10010, United States; National Development & Research Institute, Center on Community and Health Disparities Research, 71 W. 23rd St, 4th Fl, New York, NY, 10010, United States
| | - Ric Curtis
- Center for Drug Use and HIV Research, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10010, United States; John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York, Department of Law, Police Science and Criminal Justice Administration, Department of Anthropology, 524 W. 59th St, New York, NY, 10019, United States
| | - Marya Gwadz
- Center for Drug Use and HIV Research, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, 433 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10010, United States
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Goodman-Meza D, Medina-Mora ME, Magis-Rodríguez C, Landovitz RJ, Shoptaw S, Werb D. Where Is the Opioid Use Epidemic in Mexico? A Cautionary Tale for Policymakers South of the US-Mexico Border. Am J Public Health 2018; 109:73-82. [PMID: 30495992 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2018.304767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In North America, opioid use and its harms have increased in the United States and Canada over the past 2 decades. However, Mexico has yet to document patterns suggesting a higher level of opioid use or attendant harms.Historically, Mexico has been a country with low-level use of opioids, although heroin use has been documented. Low-level opioid use is likely attributable to structural, cultural, and individual factors. However, a range of dynamic factors may be converging to increase the use of opioids: legislative changes to opioid prescribing, national health insurance coverage of opioids, pressure from the pharmaceutical industry, changing demographics and disease burden, forced migration and its trauma, and an increase in the production and trafficking of heroin. In addition, harm-reduction services are scarce.Mexico may transition from a country of low opioid use to high opioid use but has the opportunity to respond effectively through a combination of targeted public health surveillance of high-risk groups, preparation of appropriate infrastructure to support evidence-based treatment, and interventions and policies to avoid a widespread opioid use epidemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Goodman-Meza
- David Goodman-Meza and Raphael J. Landovitz are with Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). Raphael J. Landovitz is also with Center for Clinical AIDS Research and Education, Los Angeles. Maria Elena Medina-Mora is with Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico. Carlos Magis-Rodríguez is with National Center for the Prevention and Control of HIV and AIDS, Mexico City. Steve Shoptaw is with Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Dan Werb is with Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Maria Elena Medina-Mora
- David Goodman-Meza and Raphael J. Landovitz are with Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). Raphael J. Landovitz is also with Center for Clinical AIDS Research and Education, Los Angeles. Maria Elena Medina-Mora is with Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico. Carlos Magis-Rodríguez is with National Center for the Prevention and Control of HIV and AIDS, Mexico City. Steve Shoptaw is with Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Dan Werb is with Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Carlos Magis-Rodríguez
- David Goodman-Meza and Raphael J. Landovitz are with Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). Raphael J. Landovitz is also with Center for Clinical AIDS Research and Education, Los Angeles. Maria Elena Medina-Mora is with Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico. Carlos Magis-Rodríguez is with National Center for the Prevention and Control of HIV and AIDS, Mexico City. Steve Shoptaw is with Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Dan Werb is with Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Raphael J Landovitz
- David Goodman-Meza and Raphael J. Landovitz are with Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). Raphael J. Landovitz is also with Center for Clinical AIDS Research and Education, Los Angeles. Maria Elena Medina-Mora is with Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico. Carlos Magis-Rodríguez is with National Center for the Prevention and Control of HIV and AIDS, Mexico City. Steve Shoptaw is with Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Dan Werb is with Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Steve Shoptaw
- David Goodman-Meza and Raphael J. Landovitz are with Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). Raphael J. Landovitz is also with Center for Clinical AIDS Research and Education, Los Angeles. Maria Elena Medina-Mora is with Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico. Carlos Magis-Rodríguez is with National Center for the Prevention and Control of HIV and AIDS, Mexico City. Steve Shoptaw is with Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Dan Werb is with Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Dan Werb
- David Goodman-Meza and Raphael J. Landovitz are with Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). Raphael J. Landovitz is also with Center for Clinical AIDS Research and Education, Los Angeles. Maria Elena Medina-Mora is with Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico. Carlos Magis-Rodríguez is with National Center for the Prevention and Control of HIV and AIDS, Mexico City. Steve Shoptaw is with Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Dan Werb is with Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Mahon LR, Hawthorne AN, Lee J, Blue H, Palombi L. Assessing pharmacy student experience with, knowledge of and attitudes towards harm reduction: illuminating barriers to pharmacist-led harm reduction. Harm Reduct J 2018; 15:57. [PMID: 30445958 PMCID: PMC6240215 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-018-0262-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the burden from the opioid epidemic continues to increase in the state of Minnesota and across the nation, the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy seeks to design an innovative, comprehensive harm reduction curriculum in order to better train student pharmacists to serve the varied needs of the greater community. This study examines incoming individuals' baseline knowledge of and attitudes toward harm reduction in order to better inform curriculum planning and to ultimately produce pharmacists capable of impacting the devastating effects of the opioid crisis. METHODS Incoming first-year pharmacy students took a survey focused on their knowledge of opioid overdose and the drug naloxone and also provided written reflections on their perceptions of harm reduction. Data was coded using consensual qualitative research (CQR) into appropriate domains. RESULTS Pharmacy students beginning their professional education revealed a lack of knowledge of proper response to an overdose situation, with 18.56% unfamiliar with the opioid antagonist drug naloxone. Close to 10% (9.58%) of students expressed unwillingness to do anything other than call an ambulance during an overdose event, while 8.98% were either unsure or felt that they would not feel compelled to do something to help. Qualitative coding revealed many barriers to students' becoming capable harm reductionists, including lack of knowledge of substance use, addiction, and harm reduction, in addition to the presence of bias and stigma. CONCLUSION In order to interrupt the cycle of misinformation and stigma within the larger community and the subgroup of medical providers, gaps in student knowledge must be addressed in meaningful, specific ways over the course of their pharmacy education. Evaluating baseline knowledge and beliefs informs the design of a flexible, action-oriented curriculum to produce well-trained pharmacists ready to engage in finding solutions to the opioid crisis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lily Rowan Mahon
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Minnesota, College of Pharmacy, 232 Life Science, 1110 Kirby Drive, Duluth, MN, 55812-3003, USA
| | - Amanda N Hawthorne
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Minnesota, College of Pharmacy, 232 Life Science, 1110 Kirby Drive, Duluth, MN, 55812-3003, USA
| | - Julie Lee
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Minnesota, College of Pharmacy, 232 Life Science, 1110 Kirby Drive, Duluth, MN, 55812-3003, USA
| | - Heather Blue
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Minnesota, College of Pharmacy, 232 Life Science, 1110 Kirby Drive, Duluth, MN, 55812-3003, USA
| | - Laura Palombi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Minnesota, College of Pharmacy, 232 Life Science, 1110 Kirby Drive, Duluth, MN, 55812-3003, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Beletsky L, Baker P, Arredondo J, Emuka A, Goodman-Meza D, Medina-Mora ME, Werb D, Davidson P, Amon JJ, Strathdee S, Magis-Rodriguez C. The global health and equity imperative for safe consumption facilities. Lancet 2018; 392:553-554. [PMID: 30152386 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(18)31469-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Leo Beletsky
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; School of Law and Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Pieter Baker
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jaime Arredondo
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Ashley Emuka
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - David Goodman-Meza
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Dan Werb
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Peter Davidson
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Joseph J Amon
- Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Steffanie Strathdee
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
León C, Cardoso L, Mackin S, Bock B, Gaeta JM. The willingness of people who inject drugs in Boston to use a supervised injection facility. Subst Abus 2017; 39:95-101. [PMID: 28799847 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2017.1365804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Massachusetts, the number of opioid-related deaths has increased 350% since 2000. In the setting of increasing overdose deaths, one potential intervention is supervised injection facilities (SIFs). This study explores willingness of people who inject drugs in Boston to use a SIF and examines factors associated with willingness. METHODS A cross-sectional survey of a convenience sample of 237 people who inject drugs and utilize Boston's needle exchange program (NEP). The drop-in NEP provides myriad harm reduction services and referrals to addiction treatment. The survey was mostly self-administered (92%). RESULTS Results showed positive willingness to use a SIF was independently associated with use of heroin as main substance (odds ratio [OR]: 5.47; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.9-15.4; P = .0004), public injection (OR: 5.09; 95% CI: 1.8-14.3; P = .002), history of seeking substance use disorder (SUD) treatment (OR: 4.99; 95% CI: 1.2-21.1; P = .05), having heard of SIF (OR: 4.80; 95% CI: 1.6-14.8; P = .004), Hispanic ethnicity (OR: 4.22; 95% CI: 0.9-18.8; P = .04), frequent NEP use (OR: 4.18; 95% CI: 1.2-14.7; P = .02), current desire for SUD treatment (OR: 4.15; 95% CI: 1.2-14.7; P = .03), hepatitis C diagnosis (OR: 3.68; 95% CI: 1.2-10.1; P = .02), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis (OR: 3.27; 95% CI: 1.3-8.4; P = .01), report of at least 1 chronic medical diagnosis (hepatitis C, human immunodeficiency virus [HIV], hypertension, or diabetes) (OR: 3.27; 95% CI: 1.2-8.9; P = .02), and comorbid medical and mental health diagnoses (OR: 2.93; 95% CI: 1.2-7.4; P = .02). CONCLUSIONS Most respondents (91.4%) reported willingness to use a SIF. Respondents with substance use behavior reflecting high risk for overdose were significantly more likely to be willing to use a SIF. Respondents with behaviors that contribute to public health burden of injection drug use were also significantly more likely to be willing to use a SIF. Results indicate that this intervention would be well utilized by individuals who could most benefit from the model. As part of a broader public health approach, SIFs should be considered to reduce opioid overdose mortality, decrease public health burden of the opioid crisis, and promote access to addiction treatment and medical care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Casey León
- a Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program , Boston , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Lena Cardoso
- a Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program , Boston , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Sarah Mackin
- b Boston Public Health Commission , Boston , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Barry Bock
- a Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program , Boston , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Jessie M Gaeta
- a Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program , Boston , Massachusetts , USA.,c Section of General Internal Medicine, Boston Medical Center , Boston , Massachusetts , USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Turner JR. Commissioner Gottlieb and the Crusade Against Opioid Abuse: Baptism by Fire. Ther Innov Regul Sci 2017; 51:400-403. [DOI: 10.1177/2168479017716636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
|