Recorded presentation

Tina C. Vaughn, BA, Institute for Health Policy and Evaluation Research, Duval County Health Department, 900 University Blvd, N, Suite 604, Jacksonville, FL 32211, 904.564.9965, tina_vaughn@juno.com, Kathryn Castro, Boulevard Comprehensive Care Center, Duval County Health Department, 1833 Boulevard, 5th Floor, Jacksonville, FL 32206, and Dan R. Ashdon, AIDS Care and Education Program Director, Lutheran Social Services of Northeast Florida, Inc, 4615 Phillips Highway, Jacksonville, FL 32207.

Qualitative and quantitative data gathered from individuals referred to the Jacksonville Jail LINC (Linking Inmates Needing Care) Project have borne out the correlation between crack use and the high-risk behaviors that often lead to and are associated with HIV. Of the approximate 550 referrals to the program since February 2000—all HIV+, 25% were women and approximately 97% of them reported regular drug use, primarily crack cocaine. Due to its relative low cost and easy accessibility, crack has become the leading barrier to effective healthcare and life management for HIV+ women in Jacksonville.

This presentation will describe the impact this program has had on the critical issues facing HIV+ incarcerated women. These issues include housing, healthcare, addictions, mental illness, custody of children, education and employment. LINC’s intensive case management has been the means through which the highly complex and previously insurmountable life-management issues of these women have been successfully addressed. Because of the impact of addictions and marginalization, the women served in this program have needed one-on-one help, literally learning how to live independently and successfully. Additionally, the program has borne out the importance of beginning the case management process as quickly as possible. The case management component of the Jacksonville Jail LINC Project is divided into two parts—case management/discharge planning within the jail and intensive case management in the community upon release. Early discharge planning/coordination with community resources is the intervention foundation that leads to success in this project.

Learning Objectives:

• At the end of this presentation, participants will be able to
• · Identify the components of the Jacksonville Jail LINC Project, specifically key aspects of case management.
• · Recognize the magnitude and impact of addiction and incarceration on the lives of HIV+ women.
• · Describe and discuss the specific actions needed to help these women individually.
• · Develop plans of action and care for incarcerated HIV+ women of differing needs.
• · Successfully advocate for the needs of this special population.

Keywords: Incarceration, HIV/AIDS

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation