Funding Agency: NYS DOH AIDS Institute
With funding from the NYC DOHMH Viral Hepatitis Program to build capacity to treat hepatitis C at START’s Programs, we implemented a project designed to improve HCV testing and treatment among people with a history of injection drug use. HCV treatment is provided onsite (concurrently dispensed with methadone), via a referral to a hepatologist, and/or telemedicine. This project demonstrated our capacity to integrate HCV treatment in opioid treatment programs and to improve engagement and treatment outcomes among underserved persons who may not engage with primary healthcare settings due to stigma and other barriers.
START was also awarded a grant to implement a program to prevent and treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and viral hepatitis infections, and improve access to treatment, vaccination and harm reduction services among patients receiving care at START. Patient health navigators have been engaging patients for screening and treatment services on an ongoing basis. Oversight is being conducted to review engagement and treatment outcomes for the purposes of determining the number of patients who underwent treatment and/or are currently in treatment. This program is ongoing at START and patient health navigators continue to engage patients about treatment services. Program grant milestones were completed 5/31/2024.