Linking HIV+ adolescents into care: The effects of relationships between local health departments and adolescent medicine clinics.

<p><b>BACKGROUND: </b>The fragmentation of HIV-related diagnostic and treatment services, especially for youth, is a significant barrier for transitioning to care. The study identified key elements that affected care linkage efforts.</p><p><b>METHODS: </b>We conducted 64 interviews across 15 clinical sites. The constant comparative method was used.</p><p><b>RESULTS: </b>Primary linkage to care processes are illustrated through three geographically diverse case studies. Factors included: inter-agency relationships, data sharing protocols, and service duplication concerns. Program improvement strategies were discussed.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS: </b>A strong, citywide network is helpful in coordinating care linkage services. These partnerships will be critical in effectively realizing the goals of the National HIV/AIDS.</p>