P-1449. An Educational Initiative to Improve Engagement in HIV Services within Substance Use Disorder Clinics

Abstract Background Substance use disorder (SUD) clinics are uniquely positioned to link patients with SUD to HIV services. This project aimed to bridge gaps in HIV care within SUD clinics. Methods From 6/2023-10/2023, healthcare professionals (HCPs) led 5 education sessions on HIV testing, prevention, and management at SUD clinics in West Virginia and Delaware. Surveys were administered pre- and post-sessions and again 4-6 weeks later. Results informed a workshop for HCPs and policy makers and an online toolkit for HCPs nationwide. Results Surveys were completed by 67 SUD clinic patients (mean age: 48 years; 66% female; 76% Caucasian; 61% previously incarcerated; 78% previously tested for HIV, 7% living with HIV) and 35 HCPs. After the sessions, significant improvements were seen in patient knowledge of “undetectable = untransmittable” (27% vs 63%; P < .001), PrEP awareness (62% vs 88%; P = .001), SUD support resources (73% vs 91%; P = .008) and HIV care resources (43% vs 70%; P = .003). Pre-session, 64% of patients did not perceive the need for HIV testing. Of the patients who did (n = 24), anxiety (63%) was the top barrier, while HCPs perceived it was patients’ lack of HIV awareness (63%). Regarding PrEP, HCPs most frequently perceived keeping up with appointments (54%) and remembering doses (51%) as the greatest challenges their patients face, but patients more frequently identified not knowing enough about the medication (39%) and concerns about side effects (31%). Patients’ self-reported likelihood of getting tested for HIV was 18% before the education and was 28% afterwards (P = .147), and 1 month later participating HCPs reported having helped > 250 patients with SUD get HIV testing. On follow-up, HCPs also described continued use of the education materials with 80% planning to lead another group session. After attending the live workshop, HCPs and policy makers (N = 103) committed to improving HIV services for patients with SUD with 77% identifying single site services for both HIV and SUD care as a high priority. As of 3/2024, the online toolkit was accessed by 1,347 HCPs. Conclusion Patient knowledge of HIV testing, prevention, and management increased following the program which also offered insights into community-level awareness and barriers to engaging in HIV services. Disclosures Chad J. Zawitz, MD, Gilead Sciences: Honoraria Kelly E. Pillinger, PharmD, AHFS: Contractor