Project RETAIN: Providing Integrated Care for HIV-Infected Crack Cocaine Users

This study will evaluate the efficacy of an integrated "Retention Clinic" in achieving virologic suppression among HIV-infected cocaine (including crack) users by using a two-group randomized, prospective trial. Participants will be randomized to one of two groups: 1) "Retention Clinic" group and 2) Treatment as Usual. The intervention content of these groups is briefly described below: Retention Clinic (RC) Group: This group will receive comprehensive and integrated services from a Retention Clinic. Services include HIV primary care, substance abuse treatment and mental health services, as needed. Participants in this group will also receive hands-on assistance with navigating through the clinic and accessing these services from a patient navigator. Treatment as Usual (TAU) Group: This group will receive no protocol directed intervention. They will get the standard retention services from their local clinic. All participants will provide informed consent and will complete a baseline audio computer-assisted self-interview or ACASI focusing on drug use, mental health, demographics and socio-economic factors, HIV care, and drug treatment history as well as blood draws for viral load and CD4 count. Follow-up assessments consisting of both ACASI and blood draws in all groups will be collected at 6 and 12 months post-randomization. Medical records will be reviewed to document use of HIV care, drug treatment and mental health services during the study period.