Barriers to HIV and HCV Screening in the TRUST Buprenorphine Clinic

Abstract

As the opioid epidemic continues in Philadelphia, buprenorphine clinics are becoming a necessary mainstay in treatment of these patients. HIV and HCV rates are rising throughout the city due to injection drug use, and buprenorphine clinics could be a bridge to therapy for these conditions as well. This thesis explores the current data about HIV and HCV rates, their connection to injection drug use, and how these overlapping epidemics might be addressed in a comprehensive manner. Historical data, current trends, and first person reflections from clinicians in the TRUST buprenorphine clinic are used to inform our understanding of barriers to integrated screening and treatment. The thesis concludes with a discussion of a better integrated model of care.