Skin and Soft Tissue Infection Experiences and Treatment Needs among Syringe Service Program Participants

Abstract

Skin and soft tissue infections include abscesses and cellulitis. These infections can result in serious health complications among people who use drugs, particularly if high-quality treatment is unavailable. Traditional healthcare treatment settings are often unwelcoming and inaccessible to people who use drugs, potentially leading to delays in getting necessary care. Our team conducted a health needs assessment among participants of five syringe services programs in North Carolina. Representatives from the syringe services programs administered surveys during July through September 2020. Participants were asked about their experiences with skin and soft tissue infections, healthcare experiences associated with these infections, and recommendations to improve quality of care. This project was conceptualized and led by people with lived experience of drug use. This project includes a survey tool that was designed by a multidisciplinary team with expertise in a wide range of fields. Team members include those with lived experience of drug use and those with training in public health, epidemiology, clinical care, and qualitative research. Additional survey results are forthcoming