Alexandros

The program was implemented in Thessaloniki from September 2019 to July 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its goal was to reach PWID in Thessaloniki and engage them in HIV and HCV testing processes, while also connecting them to the healthcare system with the assistance of specialized mediators. All services were provided free of charge at a single location in central Thessaloniki—a friendly and accessible space for the user community.

Participants underwent rapid testing for HIV-1/2 and Hepatitis C (HCV). For those who tested positive, blood samples were collected the same day for further testing. The process included counseling on the relevant diseases and a follow-up visit to deliver the results.

Subsequently, program staff accompanied patients to their first appointment at the 4th Internal Medicine Clinic of the Hippokration Hospital of Thessaloniki, facilitating their connection with Infectious Disease Units for necessary HIV and/or HCV care.

During the program, a total of 1,759 visits were conducted, involving 1,101 unique individuals. Of these, 7% tested positive for HIV, 62.5% for Hepatitis C (HCV), and 3.8% for Hepatitis B (HBV). Additionally, 53.6% of participants diagnosed with chronic Hepatitis C began treatment.

The program was implemented in collaboration with the Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), Hippokration Hospital of Thessaloniki, the Greek Organization Against Drugs (OKANA), the Hellenic National Public Health Organization (EODY), the Infectious Diseases Unit of AHEPA University Hospital of Thessaloniki, and the Hellenic Scientific Society for the Study of AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (EEEEAIDS).