A qualitative study of service engagement and unmet needs among unstably housed people who inject drugs in Massachusetts

Original research
by
Hassan, Rashida et al

Release Date

2022

Geography

USA

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

No

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

No

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

In 2018, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) investigated an increase in HIV diagnoses primarily among unstably housed PWID in Lawrence and Lowell.

Findings/Key points

Integrated services for people who inject drugs may reduce access barriers. Lack of housing hindered engaging with other services during an HIV outbreak. Access to mental health and opioid use disorder treatment are persistent barriers. Improved provider trust and social support may improve health outcomes.

Design/methods

Interviews (n=34)

Keywords

Wrap-around services
About PWUD
Social services
Barriers and enablers
Poverty
Housing
Substitution/OAT
Mental health