NDRI is pleased to announce the receipt of a starter grant from the Josiah Macy, Jr. Foundation to support the implementation and evaluation of a training program on the hepatitis C virus for clinical and non-clinical staff in 5 New York City outpatient drug treatment programs. NDRI investigators have been active in the development of evidence-based training programs intended to enhance the services delivered in drug treatment programs.
As hepatitis C has taken on greater importance as a public health challenge, it is essential that drug treatment service providers know how to institute effective public health responses. "We believe this grant will assure continued progress in developing a model training program that can be used throughout the Nation," said Dr. Shiela M. Strauss, Ph.D., NDRI principal investigator.
Hepatitis C is the most common blood-borne infectious disease in the United States, with high impact on the underserved population of drug users. Past work in this area by NDRI investigators indicated that an intervention that addresses the knowledge and enhances the communication skills of staff can influence the health-seeking and health-preserving behaviors of patients in the program.