Smart Syringe Vending Machines: Research Capabilities and Implications for Research Data Collection

Original research
par
Otiashvili, David et al

Date de publication

2021

Géographie

Georgia

Langue de la ressource

English

Texte disponible en version intégrale

Non

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Non

Évalué par des pairs

Yes

L’objectif

Syringe vending machines (SVMs) are intended to supplement the standard syringe exchange programs to access hard-to-reach groups and to cover unserved geographical areas. This report describes how we adapted SVMs to deliver interventions and collect research data as part of a study of smart SVMs (SSVMs) in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Constatations/points à retenir

Our innovative SSVM integrates features for intervention delivery and research data collection. It can be used for testing a variety of interventions beyond syringes (e.g., distribution of HIV/hepatitis C virus self-tests) and provides opportunities for serving various at-risk groups that might not otherwise access these products and services (e.g., men who have sex with men, commercial sex workers).

La conception ou méthodologie de recherche

SSVMs were installed near pharmacies and serve both the general population and PWID. The "hidden" interactive menu for the PWID prevention kits was displayed on the screen only when a special plastic card was used. The plastic cards were distributed to the clients of fixed syringe exchange programs and to their peers who were not in contact with harm-reduction services.

Mots clés

About PWUD
Social services
Digital health