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Implementation Science
Published in: Implementation Science 1/2015

Open Access 01-12-2015 | Research

Finding what works: identification of implementation strategies for the integration of methadone maintenance therapy and HIV services in Vietnam

Authors: Vivian F. Go, Giuliana J. Morales, Nguyen Tuyet Mai, Ross C. Brownson, Tran Viet Ha, William C. Miller

Published in: Implementation Science | Issue 1/2015

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Abstract

Background

Integration of methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) and HIV services is an evidence-based intervention (EBI) that benefits HIV care and reduces costs. While MMT/HIV integration is recommended by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is not widely implemented, due to organizational and operational barriers. Our study applied an innovative process to identify implementation strategies to address these barriers.

Methods

Our process was adapted from the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) protocol and consisted of two main phases. In Phase 1, we conducted 16 in-depth interviews with stakeholders and developed matrices to display barriers to integration. In Phase 2, we selected implementation strategies that addressed the barriers identified in Phase 1 and conducted a poll to vote on the most important and feasible strategies among a panel with expertise in cultural context and implementation science.

Results

Barriers fell into two broad categories: policy and programmatic. At the policy level, barriers included lack of a national mandate, different structures (MMT vs. HIV clinic) for cost reimbursement and staff salaries, and resistance on the part of staff to take on additional tasks without compensation. Programmatic barriers included the need for cross-training in MMT and HIV tasks, staff accountability, and commitment from local leaders. In Phase 2, we focused on programmatic challenges. Based on voting results and iterative dialogue with our expert panel, we selected several implementation strategies in the domains of technical assistance, staff accountability, and local commitment that targeted these barriers.

Conclusions

Key programmatic barriers to MMT/HIV integration in Vietnam may be addressed through implementation strategies that focus on technical assistance, staff accountability, and local commitment. Our process of identifying implementation strategies was simple, low cost, and potentially replicable to other settings.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Finding what works: identification of implementation strategies for the integration of methadone maintenance therapy and HIV services in Vietnam
Authors
Vivian F. Go
Giuliana J. Morales
Nguyen Tuyet Mai
Ross C. Brownson
Tran Viet Ha
William C. Miller
Publication date
01-12-2015
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Implementation Science / Issue 1/2015
Electronic ISSN: 1748-5908
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-016-0420-8

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