Assessment of an education tool to improve knowledge and reduce stigma of a syringe service program (SSP) at a VA Medical Center.

Background: Drug overdose deaths are a growing epidemic in the United States owing in part to inadequate support from health care systems. In response, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) plans to implement syringe service programs (SSPs) across VHA medical centers. This SSP education project aims to positively affect health care staff perceptions regarding SSPs and reduce the stigma surrounding substance use.

Objectives: The purpose of this research was to allow Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) students to implement and assess an educational program regarding SSP enactment at this institution. Furthermore, the objectives of the educational program were to address the stigma associated with substance use and provide knowledge to staff about SSPs.

Practice Description: Eleven complete and one abbreviated (no questionnaire) presentations were delivered by APPE students throughout the main facility and outpatient clinics, with presentations being delivered to physicians, nurses, and a range of other professions.

Practice Innovation: APPE students developed educational content and pre- and postsurveys that were used to assess for changes in knowledge and perception surrounding substance use and SSPs.

Evaluation Methods: The primary outcome was to assess individual pre- and postprogram survey responses using mean, SD, and mean change to measure the impact that the presentation had on individualized stigma.

Results: A total of 104 completed surveys were analyzed in Microsoft Excel and subcategorized by profession; 10 of the 15 questions asked in the questionnaire yielded statistical significance when comparing pre- and postpresentation results (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: A presentation method developed and delivered by APPE students resulted in a statistically significant change in perception and knowledge, proving to be an effective method for educating health care staff on SSPs.