Reaching out to boys at bars: utilizing community partnerships to employ a wellness strategy for syphilis control among men who have sex with men in New York City.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the impact of a holistic approach for syphilis control to improve the sexual health and well-being of men who have sex with men (MSM).

GOAL: The New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene (NYC DOHMH) developed Hot Shot! to address a variety of general MSM health issues, including syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency virus.

RESULTS

Between November 2003 and June 2004, 9 Hot Shot! events were held throughout NYC. Services delivered at events included STD/HIV screening; relevant adult vaccinations, cardiovascular health screenings; and mental health, tobacco, and other drug use assistance. Of 1634 attendees, 445 persons accessed > or =1 service; 4 persons were newly diagnosed with syphilis and 7 with HIV.

CONCLUSIONS

The Hot Shot! approach to syphilis control can facilitate STD education, screening, and treatment of MSM while addressing comprehensive health issues. Future integrated health service delivery programs may be more successful by using stable venues for events to ensure continuity of care for MSM.