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Substance abuse remains a risk factor for HIV infection and, once infection occurs, typically is tied to poor outcomes. In this study, researchers randomized hospitalized HIV+ patients with HIV RNA levels >200 copies/mL and active substance abuse (defined as any opioid, stimulant, or heavy alcohol abuse in the previous 12 months) to one of three 6-month intervention strategies: treatment as usual, patient navigation assistance, or navigation assistance and financial incentives of up to $1,160. The primary outcome measure was HIV suppression rate, versus nonsuppression or death, 12 months after initial hospital discharge.
The researchers enrolled 801 patients (mean age, 45; 78% black; 33% female; 78% with history of incarceration; 59% with hi…