States and substance abuse treatment programs: Funding and guidelines for infection-related services.

Community-based substance abuse treatment programs provide HIV, hepatitis C virus, and sexually transmitted infection services. As part of a larger study within the CTN (protocol CTN-0012, “Characteristics of Screening, Evaluation, and Treatment of HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C Viral Infections, and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Substance Abuse Treatment Programs”), the authors explored the relations between state (including Washington, D.C.) funding and guidelines and substance abuse treatment program practices.

State agency administrators and substance abuse treatment program administrators and clinicians were surveyed regarding eight infection-related services. Although state funding for infection-related services is widely available, substance abuse treatment programs do not always access it. Substance abuse treatment program guidelines are clearer in states that have written guidelines. Improved communication between state agencies and substance abuse treatment programs may enhance service.

Related protocols: CTN-0012