Browsing by Subject "Health departments"

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    Linking HIV+ adolescents into care: The effects of relationships between local health departments and adolescent medicine clinics
    (Taylor & Francis, 2013) Tanner, Amanda E.; Philbin, Morgan M.; Ott, Mary A.; DuVal, Anna; Ellen, Jonathan; Kapogiannis, Bill; Fortenberry, J. Dennis; The Adolescent Trials Network for HIV/AIDS Interventions; Pediatrics, School of Medicine
    Background: The fragmentation of HIV-related diagnostic and treatment services, especially for youth, is a significant barrier for transitioning to care. The study identified key elements that affected care linkage efforts. Methods: We conducted 64 interviews across 15 clinical sites. The constant comparative method was used. Results: Primary linkage to care processes are illustrated through three geographically diverse case studies. Factors included: inter-agency relationships, data sharing protocols, and service duplication concerns. Program improvement strategies were discussed. Conclusions: A strong, citywide network is helpful in coordinating care linkage services. These partnerships will be critical in effectively realizing the goals of the National HIV/AIDS.