Integrating hepatitis B prevention into sexually transmitted disease services: U.S. sexually transmitted disease program and clinic trends--1997 and 2001.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to measure the progress since 1997 of implementing sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinic-based recommendations for hepatitis B prevention. GOAL The goal of this study was to assess improvements since 1997 in hepatitis B prevention integration in STD services. STUDY Repeating a 1997 survey, in 2001, a survey was sent to state, municipal, and territorial STD program managers, previously surveyed clinic managers, and a national sample of 500 STD clinics. RESULTS: Large increases were found in the percentage of clinics offering hepatitis B vaccine (from 61% to 82%), providing education (49% to 84%), and accessing federal vaccine programs (48% to 84%). Twice as many program managers considered all patients with STDs eligible for hepatitis B vaccination. Lack of resources and patient noncompliance with vaccine series completion were program barriers. CONCLUSIONS: Hepatitis B policies and vaccination and education efforts in STD clinics have improved; however, many barriers reported in 1997 remained in 2001.