Serving South Seattle Drug Users through the Hepatitis Education Project Syringe Services Program: A Formative Program Evaluation and Needs Assessment

Abstract

Abstract: In July of 2017, the Hepatitis Education Project (HEP) opened a syringe service program (SSP) in South Seattle, providing sterile syringes, injection equipment, safe disposal of syringes, and the overdose reversal drug naloxone for people who inject drugs (PWID) and community members. The SSP aims to serve PWID in South Seattle, with an additional focus on people experiencing homelessness and the Black/African American community. To understand the needs of the population being served and to inform the development of the SSP, a formative evaluation was conducted. The evaluation used a cross-sectional design, employing mixed methods using a quantitative questionnaire and qualitative interviews. A convenience sample (n=50) of self-identified drug users was recruited from the larger pool of program participants between December 2017 and April 2018. The questionnaire focused on drug use patterns, equipment preferences, barriers to access and service needs. Additionally, twelve qualitative interviews were conducted, focusing on secondary exchange, barriers to access, and naloxone access, knowledge and use. Results reveal that respondents most commonly use methamphetamine and heroin and most reported injection drug use. Barriers to SSP participation include distance to SSP, SSP hours, mental health challenges, stigma, and misconceptions about SSPs. Interviews indicated that secondary exchange practices, particularly among participants living in homeless encampments, were highly common. Lastly, many participants reported carrying naloxone and feeling comfortable administering the drug; though many expressed a need for more training, and misconceptions about its use, effects and safety were reported. The results of the evaluation will be used to direct and inform the program activities and future development, enabling HEP to serve the South Seattle community most effectively.