Access to medical care and Service utilization among injection drug users with HIV/AIDS

Access to care and optimal service utilization among 287 low income African American former and current drug injectors was examined. Results indicated suboptimal outpatient care, and no evidence of alternative use of hospital services. Participation in drug treatment and case management were associa ted with greater access to care and use of outpatient services, even after controlling for current drug use, gender, and insurance. AIDS and physical functioning limitation were associated with emergency room (ER) use and hos pitalization. Participation in drug treatment and case management and an AI DS diagnosis were associated with optimal outpatient service use. Daily alc ohol use was associated with ER as the usual facility for care. Integration of substance abuse treatment, case management, and medical services delive ry may contribute to improved HIV care for this population. (C) 2001 Elsevi er Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.