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Thesis
Evaluating service access and utilization among young intravenous drug users in post-Katrina New Orleans
Master of Public Health (M.P.H.), Drexel University
Jun 2010
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-3601
Abstract
Background: Young intravenous drug users (IDUs) are specifically susceptible to adverse health outcomes. Utilization and access of needed services is not common among this population due to a lack of awareness, or a lack of services. Young IDUs in New Orleans are a vulnerable population that has not been extensively studied, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Overall, the purpose of this project was to assess the availability and utilization of services among young IDUs in New Orleans after Katrina. Methods: A secondary data analysis was undertaken involving semi-structured interviews of young injection drug users (IDU, N=34), and leaders of service organizations as part of the Community Assessment Process (CAP, N=10), in post-Katrina New Orleans. These interviews focused on drug use, service accessibility and utilization. NVivo 8 was used to generate themes and create codes regarding service utilization, accessibility and perception of available services. Results: CAP and IDU interviewees mentioned difficulties providing and acquiring services. CAP interviewees described issues organizations faced, such as a reduction in services, personnel, funding streams, location hardships and difficulties reaching population. Overall, few IDUs sought out services, but the majority of those who did seek were able to find services. However, perceptions varied and many were unsatisfied with the quality of the services they received. Conclusion: Findings from the CAP and IDU data shows the significant impact Hurricane Katrina had on the accessibility and utilization of services in New Orleans among IDUs. This data provides significant information needed to provide relevant services and to design effective intervention programs for this population.
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Details
- Title
- Evaluating service access and utilization among young intravenous drug users in post-Katrina New Orleans
- Creators
- Sheba King - DU
- Contributors
- Stephen Lankenau (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Public Health (M.P.H.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- School of Public Health (2002-2015); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 3601; 991014632942004721