Local program evaluation leads to improved access to care, program sustainability, and increased collaboration with global implications

The HRSA Special Projects of National Significance grant for Enhancing Linkages to Care for People Leaving Jails with HIV included ten demonstration sites. The program enhancement grants of up to $400,000 each year were awarded to ten sites including three major urban areas, Chicago, New York City and Philadelphia. Using similar approaches, the local areas instituted public health approaches to identify the HIV-infected, initiate discharge planning in jails, and facilitate post-release linkages to primary care. Tracking and sharing outcome data and conducting program evaluations led to program improvements and helped build sustainable programs. In NYC, the Ryan White Planning Council prioritized case management programs for those leaving jails. A robust effort to disseminate findings led to over a dozen published papers and policy briefs and local evaluation findings were presented at APHA 2012, the International AIDS Conference 2012 and the National Commission on Correctional Healthcare Conference. This widespread dissemination led to interest from those in other jurisdictions locally and globally, who were seeking ways to improve access and engagement in care. As a result, other community programs are interested in replicating the model including those implementing patient-centered Medical Homes and substance use treatment programs. Demonstration projects with timely dissemination can enhance awareness and opportunities to identify potential collaborators and funders for program sustainability and replication.