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Hampanda K, Grubbs H, Castillo-Mancilla J, Anderson PL, Thorne J, Helova A, Turan JM, Onono M, Abuogi LL. Antiretroviral therapy adherence among peripartum women with HIV in Kenya: an explanatory mixed methods study using dry blood spot measures and narrative interviews. AIDS Care 2024:1-12. [PMID: 39106970 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2383885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACTAdherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) remains sub-optimal among pregnant and postpartum women with HIV (PPWH) in high HIV prevalence low resource settings with few effective behavioral interventions. A large body of qualitative literature has established general barriers and facilitators to ART adherence in PPWH at various levels (individual, interpersonal, structural). However, research exploring the underlying behavioral mechanisms of ART adherence in PPWH with objectively verified adherence biomarkers is extremely limited. We conducted 24 in-depth interviews with postpartum women in western Kenya who had linked ART drug concentrations obtained from three dried blood spot samples across the peripartum period. Among PPWH with a low drug concentration (n = 13) compared to those with continuously high drug concentrations (n = 11), distinct themes emerged related to HIV status disclosure, social support, interactions with the health system, and health beliefs. By combining ART biomarkers with patient reported challenges, there is the potential for real-time interventions to support sustained ART adherence among PPWH and improve maternal and infant health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Hampanda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Center for Global Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - H Grubbs
- Department of Surgery, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - J Castillo-Mancilla
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - P L Anderson
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - J Thorne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Center for Global Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - A Helova
- Department of Health Policy and Organization, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Sparkman Center for Global Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - J M Turan
- Department of Health Policy and Organization, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Sparkman Center for Global Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - M Onono
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - L L Abuogi
- Center for Global Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
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Lippman SA, Grignon JS, Ditshwane B, West RL, Gilmore HJ, Mazibuko S, Mongwe LG, Neilands TB, Gutin SA, O’Connor C, Santana MA, Majam M. Results of the Sukuma Ndoda ("Stand up, Man") HIV Self-Screening and Assisted Linkage to Care Project in Johannesburg: A Quasi-Experimental Pre-Post Evaluation. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 96:367-375. [PMID: 38916430 PMCID: PMC11195924 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV testing rates among South African men lag behind rates for women and national targets. Community-based HIV self-screening (HIVSS) distribution and follow-up by community health workers (CHWs) is a scalable option to increase testing coverage, diagnosis, and treatment initiation. We provided HIVSS and assisted linkage to care to men not recently tested (within the past 12 months) residing in high-HIV-burden areas of Johannesburg. METHODS CHWs distributed HIVSS in 6 clinic catchment areas. Follow-up to encourage confirmatory testing and antiretroviral therapy initiation was conducted through personal support (PS) or an automated short message service (SMS) follow-up and linkage system in 3 clinic areas each. Using a quasi-experimental pre-post design, we compared differences in the proportion of men testing in the clinic catchment areas during the HIVSS campaign (June-August 2019) to the 3 months prior (March-May 2019) and compared treatment initiations by assisted linkage strategy. RESULTS Among 4793 participants accepting HIVSS, 62% had never tested. Among 3993 participants with follow-up data, 90.6% reported using their HIVSS kit. Testing coverage among men increased by 156%, from under 4% when only clinic-based HIV testing services were available to 9.5% when HIVSS and HIV testing services were available (z = -11.6; P < 0.01). Reported test use was higher for men followed through PS (99% vs. 68% in SMS); however, significantly more men reported reactive self-test results in the SMS group compared with PS (6.4% vs. 2.0%), resulting in more antiretroviral therapy initiations in the SMS group compared with PS (23 vs. 9; P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS CHW HIVSS distribution significantly increases testing among men. While PS enabled personalized follow-up, reporting differences indicate SMS is more acceptable and better aligned with expectations of privacy associated with HIVSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheri A. Lippman
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jessica S. Grignon
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Boitumelo Ditshwane
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Rebecca L. West
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Hailey J. Gilmore
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Sipho Mazibuko
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Livhuwani G. Mongwe
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Torsten B. Neilands
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Sarah A. Gutin
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | | | - Maideline A. Santana
- Gauteng Department of Health, Johannesburg District, Johannesburg, South Africa; and
| | - Mohammed Majam
- Ezintsha, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Malika N, Green HD, Bogart LM, Matovu JKB, Klein DJ, Okoboi S, Gwokyalya V, Ninsiima S, Wagner GJ. Concordance of HIV Prevention Advocacy Reports and its Associations with HIV Protective Behaviors. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04412-0. [PMID: 38900313 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04412-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Peer advocacy can promote HIV protective behaviors, but little is known about the concordance on prevention advocacy(PA) reports between people living with HIV(PLWH) and their social network members. We examined prevalence and correlates of such concordance, and its association with the targeted HIV protective behavior of the social network member. Data were analyzed from 193 PLWH(index participants) and their 599 social network members(alters). Kappa statistics measured concordance between index and alter reports of PA in the past 3 months. Logistic and multinomial regressions evaluated the relationship between advocacy concordance and alter condom use and HIV testing behavior and correlates of PA concordance. Advocacy concordance was observed in 0.3% of index-alter dyads for PrEP discussion, 9% for condom use, 18% for HIV testing, 26% for care engagement, and 49% for antiretroviral use discussions. Fewer indexes reported condom use(23.5% vs. 28.1%;[Formula: see text]=3.7, p=0.05) and HIV testing(30.5% vs. 50.5%; [Formula: see text]=25.3, p<0.001) PA occurring. Condom advocacy concordance was higher if the index and alter were romantic partners(OR=3.50; p=0.02), and lower if the index was 10 years younger than the alter(OR=0.23; p = 0.02). Alters had higher odds of using condoms with their main partner when both reported condom advocacy compared to dyads where neither reported advocacy(OR=3.90; p<0.001) and compared to dyads where only the index reported such advocacy(OR = 3.71; p=0.01). Age difference and relationship status impact advocacy agreement, and concordant perceptions of advocacy are linked to increased HIV protective behaviors. Alters' perceptions may be crucial for behavior change, informing strategies for improving advocacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nipher Malika
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main St, Santa Monica, CA, 90401, USA.
| | - Harold D Green
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health- Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Laura M Bogart
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main St, Santa Monica, CA, 90401, USA
| | | | - David J Klein
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main St, Santa Monica, CA, 90401, USA
| | - Steven Okoboi
- Infectious Disease Institute, College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Susan Ninsiima
- Infectious Disease Institute, College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Glenn J Wagner
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main St, Santa Monica, CA, 90401, USA
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Wang L, Muwonge TR, Simoni JM, Nambi F, Nakabugo L, Kibuuka J, Thomas D, Katz IT, Feutz E, Thomas KK, Ware NC, Wyatt MA, Kadama H, Mujugira A, Heffron R. Behavioral Modeling and its Association with PrEP and ART Use in Ugandan HIV-Serodifferent Couples. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1719-1730. [PMID: 38361169 PMCID: PMC11069469 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04286-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Integrating Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) delivery into Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) programs bridges the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevention gap for HIV-serodifferent couples prior to the partner living with HIV achieving viral suppression. Behavioral modeling is one mechanism that could explain health-related behavior among couples, including those using antiretroviral medications, but few tools exist to measure the extent to which behavior is modeled. Using a longitudinal observational design nested within a cluster randomized trial, this study examined the factor structure and assessed the internal consistency of a novel 24-item, four-point Likert-type scale to measure behavioral modeling and the association of behavioral modeling with medication-taking behaviors among heterosexual, cis-gender HIV-serodifferent couples. In 149 couples enrolled for research, a five-factor model provided the best statistical and conceptual fit, including attention to partner behavior, collective action, role modeling, motivation, and relationship quality. Behavioral modeling was associated with medication-taking behaviors among members of serodifferent couples. Partner modeling of ART/PrEP taking could be an important target for assessment and intervention in HIV prevention programs for HIV serodifferent couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Wang
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Jane M Simoni
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Behavioral and Social Sciences Research, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research (OBSSR), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Division of Program Coordination, Planning and Strategic Initiatives (DPCPSI), NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Florence Nambi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Joseph Kibuuka
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Dorothy Thomas
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ingrid T Katz
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Erika Feutz
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Norma C Ware
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Monique A Wyatt
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Global, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Andrew Mujugira
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Renee Heffron
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 845 19th Street South Bevill Biomedical Research Building, Room 256D, Birmingham, AL, 35294-2170, USA.
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Shade SB, Gutin SA, Agnew E, Grignon JS, Gilmore H, Ratlhagana MJ, Sumitani J, Steward WT, Lippman SA. Cost Analysis of Short Messaging Service and Peer Navigator Interventions for Linking and Retaining Adults Recently Diagnosed With HIV in Care in South Africa. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 95:417-423. [PMID: 38489491 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Large proportions of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa are not linked to or retained in HIV care. There is a critical need for cost-effective interventions to improve engagement and retention in care and inform optimal allocation of resources. METHODS We estimated costs associated with a short message service (SMS) plus peer navigation (SMS+PN) intervention; an SMS-only intervention; and standard of care (SOC), within the I-Care cluster-randomized trial to improve HIV care engagement for recently diagnosed PLHIV. We employed a uniform cost data-collection protocol to quantify resources used and associated costs for each intervention. RESULTS Compared with SOC, the SMS+PN intervention cost $1284 ($828-$2859) more per additional patient linked to care within 30 days and $1904 ($1158-$5343) more per additional patient retained in care at 12 months, while improving linkage by 24% (95% CI: 11 to 36) and retention by 16% (95% CI: 6 to 26). By contrast, the SMS-only intervention cost $198 ($93-dominated) more per additional patient linked to care and $697 ($171-dominated) more per additional patient retained in care but was not significantly associated with improvements in linkage (12%; 95% CI: -1 to 25) or retention (3%; 95% CI: -7 to 14) compared with SOC. The efficiency of the SMS+PN intervention could be improved by 46%, to $690 more per additional patient linked and $1023 more per additional patient retained in care, if implemented within the Department of Health using more efficient distribution of staff resources. DISCUSSION Findings suggest that scale-up of the SMS+PN intervention could benefit patients, improving care and health outcomes while being cost-effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Starley B Shade
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Division of Infectious Disease and Global Epidemiology, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Sarah A Gutin
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Emily Agnew
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jessica S Grignon
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle; WA
- International Training and Education Center for Health-South Africa, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
| | - Hailey Gilmore
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Mary-Jane Ratlhagana
- International Training and Education Center for Health-South Africa, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
| | - Jeri Sumitani
- International Training and Education Center for Health-South Africa, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
| | - Wayne T Steward
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Sheri A Lippman
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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Pitpitan EV, Horvath KJ, Aldous J, Stockman JK, Patterson TL, Liang M, Barrozo C, Moore V, Penninga K, Smith LR. Peers plus mobile app for treatment in HIV (PATH): protocol for a randomized controlled trial to test a community-based integrated peer support and mHealth intervention to improve viral suppression among Hispanic and Black people living with HIV. Trials 2024; 25:212. [PMID: 38520030 PMCID: PMC10958824 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08042-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Significant disparities continue to exist in the HIV care continuum, whereby Hispanic and Black people living with HIV (PLWH) are less likely to achieve viral suppression compared to their White counterparts. Studies have shown that intervention approaches that involve peer navigation may play an important role in supporting patients to stay engaged in HIV care. However, implementation may be challenging in real-world settings where there are limited resources to support peer navigators. Combining a peer navigation approach with scalable mobile health (mHealth) technology may improve impact and implementation outcomes. METHODS We combined a peer navigation intervention with a mHealth application and are conducting a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to test the efficacy of this integrated "Peers plus mobile App for Treatment in HIV" (PATH) intervention to improve HIV care engagement, and ultimately sustained viral suppression, among Hispanic and Black PLWH. We will enroll up to 375 PLWH into a two-arm prospective RCT, conducting follow-up assessments every 3 months up to 12 months post-baseline. Participants randomized to the control arm will continue to receive usual care Ryan White Program case management services. Individuals randomized to receive the PATH intervention will receive usual care plus access to two main intervention components: (1) a peer navigation program and (2) a mHealth web application. The primary outcome is sustained HIV viral suppression (undetectable viral load observed at 6- and 12-month follow-up). Secondary outcomes are retention in HIV care, gaps in HIV medical visits, and self-reported ART adherence. Recruitment for the RCT began in November 2021 and will continue until June 2024. Follow-up assessments and medical chart abstractions will be conducted to collect measurements of outcome variables. DISCUSSION The efficacy trial of PATH will help to fill gaps in our scientific understanding of how a combined peer navigation and mHealth approach may produce effects on HIV care outcomes while addressing potential implementation challenges of peer navigation in Ryan White-funded clinics. TRIAL REGISTRATION The PATH trial is registered at the United States National Institutes of Health National Library of Medicine (ClinicalTrials.gov) under ID # NCT05427318 . Registered on 22 June 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen V Pitpitan
- School of Social Work, San Diego State University, San Diego, USA.
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, USA.
| | - Keith J Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, USA
| | | | - Jamila K Stockman
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, USA
| | - Thomas L Patterson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, USA
| | - Megan Liang
- San Diego State University Research Foundation, San Diego, USA
| | | | | | | | - Laramie R Smith
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, USA
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Verinumbe T, Katomski AS, Turpin G, Syarif O, Looze P, Lalak K, Anoubissi J, Brion S, Dunaway K, Sprague L, Matyushina D, De Leon Moreno CG, Baral SD, Rucinski K, Lyons C. Characterizing the Relationship between HIV Peer Support Groups and Internalized Stigma Among People Living with HIV in Nigeria. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1068-1076. [PMID: 37889362 PMCID: PMC11234473 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04217-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
HIV-related stigma remains a significant barrier to implementing effective HIV treatment and prevention strategies in Nigeria. Despite the high uptake of peer support groups among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Nigeria, the potential role of such peer support on the burden of internalized stigma remains understudied. To address this gap, we conducted a secondary analysis of the PLHIV Stigma Index 2.0, a socio-behavioral survey implemented by PLHIV led-organizations to assess the relationship between group membership and internalized stigma. Internalized stigma was measured using the Internalized AIDS-related Stigma Scale. Multinomial logistic regression was used to measure the association between self-reported engagement in peer support groups and internalized stigma adjusting for age, education, duration since HIV diagnosis, employment, disclosure status, and sex-work engagement. Of the 1,244 respondents in this study, 75.1% were engaged in HIV peer support groups. Over half (55.5%) and about one-fourth (27.3%) demonstrated low/moderate and high levels of internalized stigma, respectively. PLHIV engaged in HIV peer support groups were less likely to report both low/moderate (versus no) (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 0.47 [95% CI: 0.27 to 0.81]; p = 0.006) and high (versus no) (aOR: 0.30 [95% CI: 0.17 to 0.53]; p < 0.001) levels of internalized stigma compared to those not engaged. In this study, the burden of internalized stigma is high among PLHIV in Nigeria. However, engagement in peer support groups appears to mitigate these stigmas. Stigma mitigation strategies to increase peer support may represent a critical tool in decreasing sustained HIV treatment gaps among PLHIV in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarfa Verinumbe
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1717 East Monument St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Anna-Sophia Katomski
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Gnilane Turpin
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Omar Syarif
- Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pim Looze
- Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Katarzyna Lalak
- Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jean Anoubissi
- Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sophie Brion
- The International Community of Women Living with HIV (ICW), London, UK
| | - Keren Dunaway
- The International Community of Women Living with HIV (ICW), London, UK
| | - Laurel Sprague
- The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Daria Matyushina
- The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Stefan D Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Katherine Rucinski
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Carrie Lyons
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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Katusiime B, Cassidy R, Krska J, Corlett SA. Medicine burden experiences of people living with HIV and association with stigma. AIDS Care 2024; 36:227-237. [PMID: 37848005 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2264557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
The medicine burden of people living with HIV (PLWH) is unknown. Between 2018 and 2020, participants completed a survey comprising outcome measures for medicine burden (LMQ-3) and stigma experiences (SSCI-8). Participants were HIV+ adults (≥18 years), using antiretrovirals (ARV) with or without non-ARV medicines, recruited via two outpatient clinics in southeast England and online via HIV charities across the UK. Spearman's correlations between medicine burden levels and stigma scores were calculated. Participants were mostly males (72%, 101/141) of mean (SD) age 48.6 (±12.31) years. Total number of medicines ranged from 1-20. High medicine burden was self-reported by 21.3% (30) and was associated with polypharmacy (≥ 5 medicines) (101.52 Vs 85.08, p = 0.006); multiple doses versus once daily regimes (109.31 Vs 85.65, p = 0.001); unemployment (98.23 Vs 84.46, p = 0.004); and ethnicity (97 Vs 86.85, p = 0.041 for non-White versus White participants). A correlation between medicine burden and stigma was observed (r = 0.576, p < 0.001). The LMQ-3 demonstrated adequate construct validity and reliability (domain loadings ranging 0.617-0.933 and Cronbach's α of 0.714-0.932). Assessment of medicine burden and psychosocial stigma in PLWH could enable identification of those needing additional support in future research and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Katusiime
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University London, UK
| | - R Cassidy
- Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - J Krska
- Medway School of Pharmacy, The Universities of Kent and Greenwich, Chatham, UK
| | - S A Corlett
- Medway School of Pharmacy, The Universities of Kent and Greenwich, Chatham, UK
- Clinical Trials, Research and Innovation, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Windmill Road, Gillingham, UK
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Demeke J, Djiadeu P, Yusuf A, Whitfield DL, Lightfoot D, Worku F, Abu-Ba'are GR, Mbuagbaw L, Giwa S, Nelson LE. HIV Prevention and Treatment Interventions for Black Men Who Have Sex With Men in Canada: Scoping Systematic Review. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2024; 10:e40493. [PMID: 38236626 PMCID: PMC10835596 DOI: 10.2196/40493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black men who have sex with men (MSM) experience disproportionately high HIV incidence globally. A comprehensive, intersectional approach (race, gender, and sexuality or sexual behavior) in understanding the experiences of Black MSM in Canada along the HIV prevention and care continuums has yet to be explored. OBJECTIVE This scoping review aims to examine the available evidence on the access, quality, gaps, facilitators, and barriers of engagement and identify interventions relevant to the HIV prevention and care continuum for Black MSM in Canada. METHODS We conducted a systematic database search, in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) checklist, of the available studies on HIV health experience and epidemiology concerning Black MSM living with or without HIV in Canada and were published after 1983 in either English or French. Searched databases include MEDLINE, Excerpta, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, the Cochrane Library, the NHUS Economic Development Database, Global Health, PsycInfo, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. From the 3095 articles identified, 19 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. RESULTS Black MSM in Canada consistently report multiple forms of stigma and lack of community support contributing to an increased HIV burden. They experience discrimination based on their intersectional identities while accessing HIV preventative and treatment interventions. Available data demonstrate that Black MSM have higher HIV incidences than Black men who have sex with women (MSW) and White MSM, and low preexposure prophylaxis knowledge and HIV literacy. Black MSM experience significant disparities in HIV prevention and care knowledge, access, and use. Structural barriers, including anti-Black racism, homophobia, and xenophobia, are responsible for gaps in HIV prevention and care continuums, poor quality of care and linkage to HIV services, as well as a higher incidence of HIV. CONCLUSIONS Considering the lack of targeted interventions, there is a clear need for interventions that reduce HIV diagnoses among Black MSM, increase access and reduce structural barriers that significantly affect the ability of Black MSM to engage with HIV prevention and care, and address provider's capacity for care and the structural barriers. These findings can inform future interventions, programming, and tools that may alleviate this HIV inequity. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.1136/bmjopen-2020-043055.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemal Demeke
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Pascal Djiadeu
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Abban Yusuf
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - David Lightfoot
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Fiqir Worku
- Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gamji Rabiu Abu-Ba'are
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Lawrence Mbuagbaw
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Sulaimon Giwa
- School of Social Work, St John's College, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St John's, NL, Canada
| | - LaRon E Nelson
- School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
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Harris GE, Watson JR, Li ATW, Ibáñez-Carrasco F, Muchenje M, Demetrakopoulos AS, McGee A, Chambers L, Gahagan J, Ceranto A, Cumby C, Liddell M. Meaningful inclusion of people living with HIV as a model for workplace policies: Key findings from the project PEER study. Work 2024; 78:489-503. [PMID: 38427522 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a large number of people live with HIV, it is worthwhile to examine the integration of this group in the workplace. OBJECTIVE To investigate how the operationalization of GIPA/MEPA supports workplace policies and practices for PLHIV. The study aims to explore what is being offered to support PLHIV in community-based agencies and what can be done to enhance the offerings. METHODS For this community-based research, 2 bilingual online surveys were sent to 150 Canadian organizations that work closely with PLHIV or offer support to them. One of the surveys was for Executive Directors of these organizations while the other was sent to peers; i.e. PLHIV whose job is to offer services to PLHIV. Questions in the surveys varied between open-ended, binary, and Likert. RESULTS GIPA/MEPA are implemented in most organizations and Executive Directors affirmed that PLHIV and their impacts on the workplace are valued. There is a consensus among Executive Directors that formal support is provided but most respondents argued that this support is not specific for PLHIV. More than half of respondents were either unaware or uncertain about the existence of informal support. Peer-employees claimed that one of the challenges of disclosing HIV to receive peer support is that they may face stigma. CONCLUSION The application of GIPA/MEPA results in positive outcomes in the workplace. The study emphasizes the need to facilitate access to informal support.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James R Watson
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Alan Tai-Wai Li
- CAAT-Community Alliance for Accessible Treatment, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Marvelous Muchenje
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - A McGee
- Memorial University, St. John's, Canada
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Hirschhorn LR, Adetunji A, Ahonkhai AA, Oladeji B, Awolude OA, Kuhns LM, Onumabor J, Kuti KM, Omigbodun O, Johnson AK, Okonkwor O, Taiwo B, Garofalo R. Mixed methods implementation research to understand success of intensive combination approach to roll back the epidemic in Nigerian adolescents) (iCARE Nigeria) HIV testing uptake and linkage to care among young men focusing on young men who have sex with men in Ibadan. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:75. [PMID: 37904200 PMCID: PMC10617228 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00574-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV seroprevalence in Nigeria is increasing among men who have sex with men (MSM) from 14% to 2007 to 23% in 2014, threatening progress towards ending the epidemic in the country. Expanding access to HIV testing and linkage to care for key populations, like young MSM (YMSM), is critical to end the HIV epidemic in Nigeria. The Intensive Combination Approach to Roll Back the Epidemic in Nigerian Adolescents (iCARE Nigeria) pilot intervention successfully implemented a combination of evidence-based interventions utilizing peer navigators and popular social media apps and platforms to reach young men at risk for HIV exposure, including YMSM. We conducted sequential mixed methods explanatory implementation research to expand on the previously reported effectiveness and implementation outcomes and to explore the determinants and strategies which contributed to primary study results. METHODS We conducted key informant interviews and focus group discussions with 2 peer navigators and 3 study staff at the end of the pilot. We used directed content analysis to understand the quantitative results from the pilot. Using the Implementation Research Logic Model, we were able to identify and map strategies through mechanisms of action from barriers addressed to the reported implementation outcomes including feasibility, acceptability fidelity and adoption. RESULTS We found that iCARE Nigeria's pilot intervention implementers reported high feasibility, acceptability fidelity and adoption were associated with implementation of strategies which addressed many challenging contextual factors, including social stigma, online social networking, legal barriers surrounding MSM behavior, and the COVID-19 pandemic. These strategies included integration of stakeholders' interests, selection of experienced peer navigators including from the targeted population, training and supportive supervision using an implementation guide, ensuring safety (COVID and legal) and identification of clinics serving the targeted population. CONCLUSION Mixed methods using implementation research frameworks provided insights into the strategies and barriers and facilitators they addressed which may explain the success of the pilot. These results can inform strategies needed to scale-up the intervention to youth including YMSM in other areas in Nigeria and the region. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN ISRCTN94590823, https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN94590823.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa R Hirschhorn
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N Michigan Ave, 14-013, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Ryan Family Center for Global Primary Care, Robert J Havey Institute of Global Health, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA.
| | - Adedotun Adetunji
- Department of Family Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Aima A Ahonkhai
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Bibilola Oladeji
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olutosin A Awolude
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Infectious Disease Institute, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Lisa M Kuhns
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jude Onumabor
- Initiative for the Advancement of Improved Health and Development, I-AIHD, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Kehinde M Kuti
- Infectious Disease Institute, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Staff Medical Services Department, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olayinka Omigbodun
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, College of Medicine,, Ibadan University, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Amy K Johnson
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ogochukwu Okonkwor
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Center for Global Health, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Babafemi Taiwo
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Center for Global Health, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Robert Garofalo
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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12
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Merrill KG, Frimpong C, Burke VM, Abrams EA, Miti S, Mwansa JK, Denison JA. "Project YES! has given me a task to reach undetectable": Qualitative findings from a peer mentoring program for youth living with HIV in Zambia. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292719. [PMID: 37831675 PMCID: PMC10575487 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The Project YES! clinic-based peer mentoring program was a randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted among 276 youth from four HIV clinics to test the impact of the program on promoting HIV self-management and reducing internalized stigma among youth living with HIV (ages 15-24 years) in Ndola, Zambia. We conducted a qualitative sub-study involving in-depth interviews with 40 intervention youth participants (21 female, 19 male) to explore their experiences with Project YES! which included: an orientation meeting led by a healthcare provider, monthly individual and group counseling sessions over six months, and three optional caregiver group sessions. Using baseline RCT data, we used maximum variation sampling to purposively select youth by sex, age, change in virologic results between baseline and midline, and study clinic. A four-person team conducted thematic coding. Youth described their increased motivation to take their HIV care seriously due to Project YES!, citing examples of improvements in ART adherence and for some, virologic results. Many cited changes in behavior in the context of greater feelings of self-worth and acceptance of their HIV status, resulting in less shame and fear associated with living with HIV. Youth also attributed Project YES! with reducing their sense of isolation and described Project YES! youth peer mentors and peers as their community and "family." Findings highlight that self-worth and personal connections play a critical role in improving youths' HIV outcomes. Peer-led programs can help foster these gains through a combination of individual and group counseling sessions. Greater attention to the context in which youth manage their HIV, beyond medication intake, is needed to reach global HIV targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine G. Merrill
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | - Virginia M. Burke
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth A. Abrams
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Sam Miti
- Arthur Davison Children’s Hospital, Ndola, Zambia
| | | | - Julie A. Denison
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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13
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Fuster-RuizdeApodaca MJ, Pérez-Garín D, Baceiredo V, Laguía A, Carrillo JG, García R, García D. Evaluation of a peer intervention project in the hospital setting to improve the health-related quality of life of recently diagnosed people with HIV infection. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2023; 21:106. [PMID: 37704978 PMCID: PMC10500776 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-023-02185-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to assess the impact of a peer intervention programme in the hospital setting to improve the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of people recently diagnosed with HIV infection. METHODS A quasi-experimental single-group study with pre- and post-measurements was conducted. The peer intervention programme consisted of four sessions that took place at the following times: (1) the day of diagnosis, (2) the day when the results of the analyses were collected and ART (antiretroviral therapy) began, (3) one month after the start of ART, and (4) four months after the start of ART. The dependent variables were HRQoL and several of its psychological predictors. Change in the dependent variables was analysed through repeated measures, variance analysis and covariance analysis. Forty-three people with HIV participated in the intervention (40 men, mean age = 39.14). RESULTS A significant positive evolution was found in all the predictors of HRQoL, except avoidant coping (p < .05). A positive evolution was also found in all HRQoL dimensions (p < .05). There was a significant increase in CD4 cells/mm3 lymphocytes (p < .0001) and in the CD4/CD8 ratio (p < .001). The positive differential scores in the psychological health and social relationship dimensions influenced the increase in CD4 cells/mm3 lymphocytes (p = .012, p = .13). The increase in the social relations dimension score and overall health perception influenced the recovery of the CD4/CD8 ratio (p = .044; p = .068). CONCLUSIONS Peer intervention improved the HRQoL of people recently diagnosed with HIV, and enhanced psychological health and social relationships covariate with their immunological recovery. This study represents an essential advance in evaluating peer intervention programmes for positive prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Fuster-RuizdeApodaca
- Department of Social and Organizational Psychology. Psychology Faculty, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
- Spanish Interdisciplinary AIDS Society, Madrid, Spain
| | - D Pérez-Garín
- Department of Social and Organizational Psychology. Psychology Faculty, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain.
| | - V Baceiredo
- Infectious Diseases Unit, University Hospital V. Del Rocío, Seville, Spain
- Adhara Association, Seville, Spain
| | - A Laguía
- Department of Social and Organizational Psychology. Psychology Faculty, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - J García Carrillo
- Adhara Association, Seville, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Unit, University Hospital V. De Valme, Seville, Spain
| | - R García
- Adhara Association, Seville, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Unit, University Hospital V. Macarena, Seville, Spain
| | - D García
- Adhara Association, Seville, Spain
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Chang HY, Johnson V, Conyers LM. Exploring the Impact of an Integrated Trauma-Informed HIV and Vocational Intervention for Black/African American Women Living with HIV. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6649. [PMID: 37681789 PMCID: PMC10487101 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20176649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Given the increased recognition of the role of social determinants of health on the prevalence of HIV in the United States, interventions that incorporate and address social determinants of HIV are essential. In response to the health disparities facing Black/African American women living with HIV, HIV activists and mental health specialists developed an innovative integrated HIV prevention and vocational development intervention, Common Threads, that underscores and addresses key economic and other social determinants of health experienced by Black/African American women within a trauma-informed care (TIC) framework. This research study applied grounded theory methods to conduct a qualitative study of Common Threads based on interviews with 21 women who participated in the Common Threads intervention. Participants shared several critical aspects of program components that reflected the TIC principles, endorsing a safe environment, trust building, and a sense of belonging. These components also encouraged transparency and promoted autonomy. Additionally, participants shared perceived program outcomes, including changes of knowledge and skills in four considering work domains (i.e., medical, psychosocial financial/legal resources, and vocational) that facilitate health and vocational development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Ying Chang
- Yang-Tan Institute on Employment and Disability, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| | - Vanessa Johnson
- Ribbon, Suite 200, 1300 Mercantile Lane, Largo, MD 20774, USA;
| | - Liza Marie Conyers
- Educational Psychology, Counseling, and Special Education, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA;
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Bouabida K, Chaves BG, Anane E. Challenges and barriers to HIV care engagement and care cascade: viewpoint. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1201087. [PMID: 37547803 PMCID: PMC10398380 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1201087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are subject to long-term management and a complex care process. Patients with HIV are clinically, socially, and emotionally vulnerable, face many challenges, and are often stigmatized. Healthcare providers should engage them with diligence in the HIV care cascade process. In this paper, we discuss from our viewpoint certain social and public health barriers and challenges that should be considered by healthcare providers to better engage patients in the HIV care cascade process and maximize its outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khayreddine Bouabida
- Research Center of the Hospital Center of the University of Montreal (CRCHUM), Montreal, MTL, Canada
- École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Research, St. George’s University School of Medicine, Great River, NY, United States
| | | | - Enoch Anane
- Department of Biomedical Research, St. George’s University School of Medicine, Great River, NY, United States
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16
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Taiwo BO, Kuhns LM, Omigbodun O, Awolude O, Kuti KM, Adetunji A, Berzins B, Janulis P, Akanmu S, Agbaji O, David AN, Akinbami A, Adekambi AF, Johnson AK, Okonkwor O, Oladeji BD, Cervantes M, Adewumi OM, Kapogiannis B, Garofalo R. A randomized stepped wedge trial of an intensive combination approach to roll back the HIV epidemic in Nigerian adolescents: iCARE Nigeria treatment support protocol. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0274031. [PMID: 37418498 PMCID: PMC10328338 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nigeria is one of six countries with half the global burden of youth living with HIV. Interventions to date have been inadequate as AIDS-related deaths in Nigeria's youth have remained unchanged in recent years. The iCARE Nigeria HIV treatment support intervention, a combination of peer navigation and SMS text message medication reminders to promote viral suppression, demonstrated initial efficacy and feasibility in a pilot trial among youth living with HIV in Nigeria. This paper describes the study protocol for the large-scale trial of the intervention. METHODS The iCARE Nigeria-Treatment study is a randomized stepped wedge trial of a combination (peer navigation and text message reminder) intervention, delivered to youth over a period of 48 weeks to promote viral suppression. Youth receiving HIV treatment at six clinical sites in the North Central and South Western regions of Nigeria were recruited for participation. Eligibility criteria included registration as a patient at participating clinics, aged 15-24 years, on antiretroviral therapy for at least three months, ability to understand and read English, Hausa, Pidgin English, or Yoruba, and intent to remain a patient at the study site during the study period. The six clinic sites were divided into three clusters and randomized to a sequence of control and intervention periods for comparison. The primary outcome is plasma HIV-1 viral load suppression, defined as viral load ≤ 200 copies/mL, in the intervention period versus the control period at 48 weeks of intervention. DISCUSSION Evidence-based interventions to promote viral load suppression among youth in Nigeria are needed. This study will determine efficacy of a combination intervention (peer navigation and text message reminder) and collect data on potential implementation barriers and facilitators to inform scale-up if efficacy is confirmed. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT04950153, retrospectively registered July 6, 2021, https://clinicaltrials.gov/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babafemi O. Taiwo
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Institute for Global Health, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, Unites States of America
| | - Lisa M. Kuhns
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, Unites States of America
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Ann and Robert H Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, Unites States of America
| | - Olayinka Omigbodun
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olutosin Awolude
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Infectious Disease Institute, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Kehinde M. Kuti
- Infectious Disease Institute, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Staff Medical Services Department, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Adedotun Adetunji
- Department of Family Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Baiba Berzins
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Institute for Global Health, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, Unites States of America
| | - Patrick Janulis
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, Unites States of America
| | | | - Oche Agbaji
- Department of Medicine, University of Jos and Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Abiodun Folashade Adekambi
- Department of Paediatrics, Olabisi Onabanjo University and Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Amy K. Johnson
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, Unites States of America
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Ann and Robert H Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, Unites States of America
| | - Ogochukwu Okonkwor
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Institute for Global Health, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, Unites States of America
| | | | - Marbella Cervantes
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Ann and Robert H Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, Unites States of America
| | - Olubusuyi M. Adewumi
- Department of Virology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Bill Kapogiannis
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, Unites States of America
| | - Robert Garofalo
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, Unites States of America
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Ann and Robert H Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, Unites States of America
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Stockman JK, Anderson KM, Fernandez DeSoto A, Campbell DM, Tsuyuki K, Horvath KJ. A Trauma-Informed HIV Intervention (LinkPositively) to Improve HIV Care Among Black Women Affected by Interpersonal Violence: Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e46325. [PMID: 37405824 DOI: 10.2196/46325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black women bear a disproportionate burden of HIV, accounting for nearly 60% of new diagnoses among US women. Black women living with HIV often experience mutually reinforcing epidemics, known as syndemics, including interpersonal violence and substance use. Syndemics are associated with decreased HIV care engagement and treatment adherence and worsening HIV outcomes. Few HIV services and resources are tailored to be culturally and gender-responsive and trauma informed for Black women living with HIV. Technology-based, psychoeducational, and peer navigation programs offer promising pathways to tailored HIV support and improved HIV care outcomes. Therefore, the web-based, trauma-informed intervention LinkPositively was developed in collaboration with Black women living with HIV to promote uptake of HIV care and ancillary support services. OBJECTIVE This study primarily determines the feasibility and acceptability of the LinkPositively intervention among Black women living with HIV affected by interpersonal violence. The secondary aim is to examine the preliminary impact of the LinkPositively intervention on retention in HIV care, antiretroviral therapy adherence, and viral suppression while evaluating the role of mechanism of change variables (eg, social support) in the associations. METHODS The LinkPositively trial is a pilot randomized controlled trial conducted in California, United States, among 80 adult Black women living with HIV who have experienced interpersonal violence. Core components of LinkPositively include one-on-one peer navigation with phone and SMS text message check-ins; 5 weekly one-on-one video sessions to build coping and care navigation skills; and a mobile app that contains a peer support social networking platform, an educational database with healthy living and self-care tips, a GPS-enabled HIV and ancillary care resource locator, and a medication self-monitoring and reminder system. Participants are randomly assigned to the intervention (n=40) or control (Ryan White standard of care; n=40) arm, with follow-up at 3 and 6 months. At each assessment, participants complete an interviewer-administered survey and submit hair samples for the assessment of HIV medication adherence. All research staff and investigators adhere to ethical principles and guidelines for conducting research activities. Data will be analyzed using generalized estimating equations. RESULTS Final development and testing of the LinkPositively app were completed in July 2021. As of May 2023, we have screened 97 women for eligibility. Of the 97 women screened, 27 (28%) were eligible and have been enrolled in the study. The dissemination of preliminary results will occur in 2024. CONCLUSIONS This trial will advance HIV prevention science by harnessing technology to promote engagement in HIV care while improving social support through peers and social networking-all while being trauma informed for Black women living with HIV with experiences of interpersonal violence. If shown to be feasible and acceptable, LinkPositively has the potential to improve HIV care outcomes among Black women, a marginalized key population. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/46325.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamila K Stockman
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Katherine M Anderson
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Alexandra Fernandez DeSoto
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Danielle M Campbell
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Kiyomi Tsuyuki
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Keith J Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
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Gormley M, Loughran C, Conte J, Dunn Navarra AM. Trends in U.S. HIV Peer Health Worker Training Strategies and Approaches: A Scoping Review of the Literature. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2023; 34:331-348. [PMID: 37224079 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Peer health workers (peers) are commonly engaged interventionists in the HIV care spectrum. The objective of this scoping review was to examine the range of evidence on training strategies and approaches for peer-led HIV behavioral interventions in the United States. Four electronic databases (Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE, and PsycINFO) were searched for peer-reviewed published literature (2010-2021) of peer-led HIV behavioral interventions directed to improving antiretroviral therapy adherence and/or retention in care. Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Eleven studies referenced manualized training materials, and nine used role-play as part of their curricula. Peer training content and duration varied across studies, as well as evaluation of intervention fidelity, and peer competency. Findings highlight heterogeneity in peer training strategies and approaches. The expansion and sustainability of peer engagement in the HIV care continuum will require greater consensus among members of the research community on best practices for training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurade Gormley
- Maurade Gormley, PhD, CPNP, is an Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA. Claire Loughran, MPH, is a Project Manager, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, New York, USA. Jill Conte, MA, MSLS, is an Associate Curator, Division of Libraries, New York University, New York, New York, USA. Ann-Margaret Dunn Navarra, PhD, CPNP-PC, FAAN, is an Associate Professor, Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, New York, USA
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Nakalega R, Mukiza N, Menge R, Kizito S, Babirye JA, Kuteesa CN, Mawanda D, Mulumba E, Nabukeera J, Ggita J, Nakanjako L, Akello C, Mirembe BG, Lukyamuzi Z, Nakaye C, Kataike H, Maena J, Etima J, Nabunya HK, Biira F, Nagawa C, Heffron R, Celum C, Gandhi M, Mujugira A. Feasibility and acceptability of peer-delivered HIV self-testing and PrEP for young women in Kampala, Uganda. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1163. [PMID: 37322510 PMCID: PMC10273744 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16081-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) account for 29% of new HIV infections in Uganda despite representing just 10% of the population. Peer support improves AGYW linkage to HIV care and medication adherence. We evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of peer delivered HIV self-tests (HIVST) and oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to young women in Uganda. METHODS Between March and September 2021, we conducted a pilot study of 30 randomly selected young women, aged 18-24 years, who had received oral PrEP for at least three months, but had suboptimal adherence as measured by urine tenofovir testing (< 1500 ng/ml). Participants were offered daily oral PrEP and attended clinic visits three and six months after enrollment. Between clinic visits, participants were visited monthly by trained peers who delivered HIVST and PrEP. Feasibility and acceptability of peer-delivered PrEP and HIVST (intervention) were measured by comparing actual versus planned intervention delivery and product use. We conducted two focus groups with young women, and five in-depth interviews with peers and health workers to explore their experiences with intervention delivery. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS At baseline, all 30 enrolled young women (median age 20 years) accepted peer-delivered PrEP and HIVST. Peer delivery visit completion was 97% (29/30) and 93% (28/30) at three and six months, respectively. The proportion of participants with detectable tenofovir in urine was 93% (27/29) and 57% (16/28) at months three and six, respectively. Four broad themes emerged from the qualitative data: (1) Positive experiences of peer delivered HIVST and PrEP; (2) The motivating effect of peer support; (3) Perceptions of female controlled HIVST and PrEP; and (4) Multi-level barriers to HIVST and PrEP use. Overall, peer delivery motivated young women to use HIVST and PrEP and encouraged persistence on PrEP by providing non-judgmental client-friendly services and adherence support. CONCLUSION Peer delivery of HIVST and oral PrEP was feasible and acceptable to this sample of young women with suboptimal PrEP adherence in Uganda. Future larger controlled studies should evaluate its effectiveness among African AGWY.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Nakalega
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda.
| | | | | | - Samuel Kizito
- Brown School at Washington University, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Juliet Allen Babirye
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Emmie Mulumba
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Josephine Nabukeera
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joseph Ggita
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Carolyne Akello
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Brenda Gati Mirembe
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Zubair Lukyamuzi
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Catherine Nakaye
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hajira Kataike
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joel Maena
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Juliane Etima
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hadijah Kalule Nabunya
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Florence Biira
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Christine Nagawa
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Monica Gandhi
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Andrew Mujugira
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Meng X, Yin H, Ma W, Gu J, Lu Z, Fitzpatrick T, Zou H. Peer-Led Community-Based Support Services and HIV Treatment Outcomes Among People Living With HIV in Wuxi, China: Propensity Score-Matched Analysis of Surveillance Data From 2006 to 2021. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2023; 9:e43635. [PMID: 36961492 PMCID: PMC10131765 DOI: 10.2196/43635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community-based organizations deliver peer-led support services to people living with HIV. Systematic reviews have found that peer-led community-based support services can improve HIV treatment outcomes; however, few studies have been implemented to evaluate its impact on mortality using long-term follow-up data. OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate the associations between the receipt of peer-led community-based support services and HIV treatment outcomes and survival among people living with HIV in Wuxi, China. METHODS We performed a propensity score-matched retrospective cohort study using data collected from the Chinese National HIV/AIDS Comprehensive Information Management System for people living with HIV in Wuxi, China, between 2006 and 2021. People living with HIV who received adjunctive peer-led community-based support for at least 6 months from a local community-based organization (exposure group) were matched to people living with HIV who only received routine clinic-based HIV care (control group). We compared the differences in HIV treatment outcomes and survival between these 2 groups using Kaplan-Meier curves. We used competing risk and Cox proportional hazards models to assess correlates of AIDS-related mortality (ARM) and all-cause mortality. We reported adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio and adjusted hazard ratio with 95% CIs. RESULTS A total of 860 people living with HIV were included (430 in the exposure group and 430 in the control group). The exposure group was more likely to adhere to antiretroviral therapy (ART; 396/430, 92.1% vs 360/430, 83.7%; P<.001), remain retained in care 12 months after ART initiation (402/430, 93.5% vs 327/430, 76.1%; P<.001), and achieve viral suppression 9 to 24 months after ART initiation (357/381, 93.7% vs 217/243, 89.3%; P=.048) than the control group. The exposure group had significantly lower ARM (1.8 vs 7.0 per 1000 person-years; P=.01) and all-cause mortality (2.3 vs 9.3 per 1000 person-years; P=.002) and significantly higher cumulative survival rates (P=.003). The exposure group had a 72% reduction in ARM (adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio 0.28, 95% CI 0.09-0.95) and a 70% reduction in all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 0.30, 95% CI 0.11-0.82). The nonrandomized retrospective nature of our analysis prevents us from determining whether peer-led community-based support caused the observed differences in HIV treatment outcomes and survival between the exposure and control groups. CONCLUSIONS The receipt of peer-led community-based support services correlated with significantly improved HIV treatment outcomes and survival among people living with HIV in a middle-income country in Asia. The 15-year follow-up period in this study allowed us to identify associations with survival not previously reported in the literature. Future interventional trials are needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Meng
- Wuxi Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi, China
| | - Hanlu Yin
- Wuxi Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi, China
| | - Wenjuan Ma
- Wuxi Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi, China
| | - Jing Gu
- Wuxi Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi, China
| | - Zhen Lu
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Thomas Fitzpatrick
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Huachun Zou
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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21
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Lippman SA, de Kadt J, Ratlhagana MJ, Agnew E, Gilmore H, Sumitani J, Grignon J, Gutin SA, Shade SB, Gilvydis JM, Tumbo J, Barnhart S, Steward WT. Impact of short message service and peer navigation on linkage to care and antiretroviral therapy initiation in South Africa. AIDS 2023; 37:647-657. [PMID: 36468499 PMCID: PMC9994809 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examine the efficacy of short message service (SMS) and SMS with peer navigation (SMS + PN) in improving linkage to HIV care and initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART). DESIGN I-Care was a cluster randomized trial conducted in primary care facilities in North West Province, South Africa. The primary study outcome was retention in HIV care; this analysis includes secondary outcomes: linkage to care and ART initiation. METHODS Eighteen primary care clinics were randomized to automated SMS ( n = 7), automated and tailored SMS + PN ( n = 7), or standard of care (SOC; n = 4). Recently HIV diagnosed adults ( n = 752) were recruited from October 2014 to April 2015. Those not previously linked to care ( n = 352) contributed data to this analysis. Data extracted from clinical records were used to assess the days that elapsed between diagnosis and linkage to care and ART initiation. Cox proportional hazards models and generalized estimating equations were employed to compare outcomes between trial arms, overall and stratified by sex and pregnancy status. RESULTS Overall, SMS ( n = 132) and SMS + PN ( n = 133) participants linked at 1.28 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01-1.61] and 1.60 (95% CI: 1.29-1.99) times the rate of SOC participants ( n = 87), respectively. SMS + PN significantly improved time to ART initiation among non-pregnant women (hazards ratio: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.25-2.25) and men (hazards ratio: 1.83; 95% CI: 1.03-3.26) as compared with SOC. CONCLUSION Results suggest SMS and peer navigation services significantly reduce time to linkage to HIV care in sub-Saharan Africa and that SMS + PN reduced time to ART initiation among men and non-pregnant women. Both should be considered candidates for integration into national programs. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02417233, registered 12 December 2014; closed to accrual 17 April 2015.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheri A. Lippman
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Julia de Kadt
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
| | - Mary J. Ratlhagana
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
| | - Emily Agnew
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Hailey Gilmore
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jeri Sumitani
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
| | - Jessica Grignon
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sarah A. Gutin
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Starley B. Shade
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jennifer M. Gilvydis
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
| | - John Tumbo
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Health Care, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
| | - Scott Barnhart
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Wayne T. Steward
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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22
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McKinney-Prupis E, Chiu YCJ, Grov C, Tsui EK, Duke SI. Psychosocial and Health-Related Behavioral Outcomes of a Work Readiness HIV Peer Worker Training Program. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4322. [PMID: 36901333 PMCID: PMC10001842 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Targeted work readiness training is an important approach to help people living with HIV (PLHIV) to overcome their unique barriers to work, while addressing social determinants of health needs. This study assesses the psychosocial impacts of a work readiness training and internship program among HIV peer workers in New York City. From 2014 through 2018, 137 PLHIV completed the training program, and 55 individuals completed both the training and the six-month peer internship. Depression, HIV internalized stigma, self-esteem, HIV medication adherence, patient self-advocacy, and safer sex communication apprehension were used as outcome measures. Paired t-tests were performed to determine if significant score changes occurred at the individual level before and after each training. Our results show that participating in the peer worker training program significantly decreased depression and internalized HIV stigma, and significantly increased self-esteem, medication adherence, and patient self-advocacy. The study underscores that peer worker training programs are important tools to improve not only the work readiness of PLHIV, but also psychosocial and health outcomes. Implications for HIV service providers and stakeholders are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christian Grov
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY 10017, USA
| | - Emma K. Tsui
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY 10017, USA
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23
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Feldman MB, Tran TT, Boucher LM, Abdelqader F, Raker AR, Hile SJ. A process and impact evaluation of a peer-led HIV self-management program. EVALUATION AND PROGRAM PLANNING 2023; 96:102175. [PMID: 36459775 DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2022.102175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
There is evidence that people with HIV (PWH) receive health-related benefits from having peer support and learning self-management skills. This evaluation assessed the effect of The Positive Life Workshop (TPLW)-a 7-session peer-led HIV self-management program-on psychosocial and HIV treatment outcomes. The overall sample included 1360 PWH who completed TPLW during 3/2015-2/2019. Surveys were administered before and after the program, and three months following program completion. Analyses examined changes in outcomes from pre-test to both post-test and 3-month follow-up using non-parametric tests. Subgroup analyses were conducted for 406 participants with ≥ 1 characteristic of the priority population for TPLW (i.e., recent HIV diagnosis, not taking antiretroviral therapy (ART), suboptimal ART adherence, unsuppressed viral load). In the overall sample, there were statistically significant improvements in HIV-related knowledge, social support, patient self-advocacy, and confidence in self-management between pre-test and post-test/3-month follow-up assessment. Analyses for the priority population showed significant increases from pre-test to 3-month follow-up in the proportion of participants who were ≥ 90 % adherent to ART (59-83 %, p < 0.01) and virally suppressed (42 % to 66 %, p < 0.01). The findings suggest the importance of ensuring HIV self-management interventions reach vulnerable populations of PWH who struggle with initiating and maintaining HIV-related health-promoting behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew B Feldman
- The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Division of Disease Control, Bureau of Hepatitis, HIV, and Sexually Transmitted Infections, 42-09 28th Street, Queens, NY 11101, United States.
| | - Trang T Tran
- The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Division of Disease Control, Bureau of Hepatitis, HIV, and Sexually Transmitted Infections, 42-09 28th Street, Queens, NY 11101, United States
| | - Lisa M Boucher
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, 600 Peter Morand Crescent Ottawa, Ontario K1G 5Z3, Canada; C.T. Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, 43 Bruyère Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 5C8, Canada
| | - Faisal Abdelqader
- The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Division of Disease Control, Bureau of Hepatitis, HIV, and Sexually Transmitted Infections, 42-09 28th Street, Queens, NY 11101, United States
| | - Amanda R Raker
- The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Division of Disease Control, Bureau of Hepatitis, HIV, and Sexually Transmitted Infections, 42-09 28th Street, Queens, NY 11101, United States
| | - Stephen J Hile
- The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Division of Disease Control, Bureau of Hepatitis, HIV, and Sexually Transmitted Infections, 42-09 28th Street, Queens, NY 11101, United States
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Gibbs A, Gumede D, Adeagbo O, Sikweyiya Y, Chirwa E, Mkhwanazi S, Luthuli M, Xulu Z, Herbst C, Zuma T, Hlongwane S, Okesola N, Dreyer J, Khaula S, Washington L, Shahmanesh M. Adaptation and pre-test of a shortened Stepping Stones and Creating Futures intervention focused on HIV for young men in rural South Africa. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001632. [PMID: 36963059 PMCID: PMC10021369 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Men's engagement in HIV prevention and treatment is suboptimal, including in South Africa. We sought to address this through adapting an evidence-based intervention, Stepping Stones and Creating Futures (SSCF), to strengthen its HIV content and provide a more scalable (shorter) intervention in rural South Africa. We then conducted a mixed methods pre-test of the intervention among young men aged 18-35 years. To adapt SSCF, we reviewed the current evidence base and worked with male Peer Navigators to update the SSCF theory of change (ToC) and manual. The revised intervention was ~45 hours (9 sessions) as opposed to ~63 hours and included a greater focus on HIV prevention and treatment technologies. Overall, 64% (n = 60) of men approached agreed to participate in the intervention, uptake (attending one session) among those who agreed was n = 35(58%) and retention (attending 6 or more sessions) was n = 25(71%). Qualitative data emphasized the intervention was acceptable, with young men describing it as something they liked. The qualitative data also broadly supported the intervention ToC, including the normalization of HIV in men's lives, and the importance of health for men in achieving their life goals. However, it also highlighted the need to focus more on HIV-related stigma and fear, and the importance of HIV self-testing kits in encouraging testing. We revised the ToC and manual in light of this data. The adapted SSCF is acceptable and supports the ToC. Next steps is an evaluation to look at effectiveness of the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Gibbs
- Department of Psychology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dumsani Gumede
- Africa Health Research Institute, Somkhele, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Oluwafemi Adeagbo
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa, United States of America
- Department of Sociology, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Yandisa Sikweyiya
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Esnat Chirwa
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Smanga Mkhwanazi
- Gender and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Manono Luthuli
- Africa Health Research Institute, Somkhele, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Zakhele Xulu
- Africa Health Research Institute, Somkhele, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Carina Herbst
- Africa Health Research Institute, Somkhele, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Thembelihle Zuma
- Africa Health Research Institute, Somkhele, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | | | | | - Jaco Dreyer
- Africa Health Research Institute, Somkhele, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | | | | | - Maryam Shahmanesh
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Africa Health Research Institute, Somkhele, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
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25
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Goldhammer H, Marc LG, Psihopaidas D, Chavis NS, Massaquoi M, Cahill S, Rebchook G, Reisner S, Mayer KA, Cohen SM, Keuroghlian AS. HIV Care Continuum Interventions for Transgender Women: A Topical Review. Public Health Rep 2023; 138:19-30. [PMID: 35060802 PMCID: PMC9730173 DOI: 10.1177/00333549211065517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgender women experience a disproportionate prevalence of HIV and barriers to linkage to care, retention in care, medication adherence, and viral suppression. As part of a national cooperative agreement funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration's HIV/AIDS Bureau, we searched the literature from January 1, 2010, through June 1, 2020, for English-language articles on interventions designed to improve at least 1 HIV care continuum outcome or address 1 barrier to achieving HIV care continuum outcomes among transgender women diagnosed with HIV in the United States. To be included, articles needed to identify transgender women as a priority population for the intervention. We found 22 interventions, of which 15 reported quantitative or qualitative outcomes and 7 reported study protocols. Recent interventions have incorporated a range of strategies that show promise for addressing pervasive structural and individual barriers rooted in societal and cultural stigma and discrimination against transgender people. Cross-cutting themes found among the interventions included meaningful community participation in the design and implementation of the interventions; culturally affirming programs that serve as a gateway to HIV care and combine gender-affirming care and social services with HIV care; interventions to improve behavioral health outcomes; peer-led counseling, education, and navigation; and technology-based interventions to increase access to care management and online social support. Ongoing studies will further elucidate the efficacy and effectiveness of these interventions, with the goal of reducing disparities in the HIV care continuum and bringing us closer to ending the HIV epidemic among transgender women in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Linda G. Marc
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Nicole S. Chavis
- HIV/AIDS Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration, Rockville, MD, USA
| | | | - Sean Cahill
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Bouve College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Greg Rebchook
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sari Reisner
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth A. Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stacy M. Cohen
- HIV/AIDS Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Alex S. Keuroghlian
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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26
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Bisnauth MA, Davies N, Monareng S, Struthers H, McIntyre JA, Rees K. Exploring healthcare workers' experiences of managing patients returning to HIV care in Johannesburg, South Africa. Glob Health Action 2022; 15:2012019. [PMID: 35037586 PMCID: PMC8765239 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2021.2012019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Retention of patients in HIV care is a critical barrier to reaching the UNAIDS 90–90-90 goals in South Africa. In January 2019, Anova Health Institute launched a campaign to encourage patients who had interrupted antiretroviral therapy to return to care. The Welcome Back campaign included training of health care workers and implementation of Médecins Sans Frontiers Welcome Services principles. Objective The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of healthcare workers managing patients reinitiating antiretroviral therapy following training, including barriers and facilitators to implementation. Methods Data were collected from six clinics. This study consisted of three components: 1) surveys; 2) semi-structured interviews and 3) reflexive feedback sessions. Each component covered staff attitudes and facility management of patients reinitiating antiretroviral therapy. A descriptive analysis was conducted of survey responses. A thematic approach was used to analyze interviews. Results Thirty-six healthcare workers completed the survey and interview. Following analysis, feedback sessions were conducted with 99 healthcare workers. Twenty-two (61%) participants were lay counsellors. The majority of healthcare workers reported managing patients returning to care appropriately. However, barriers persisted: 9 (25%) responded that patients were sent to the back of the queue and that service providers continued to insist on transfer letters. Twenty-five (69%) responded they had seen/heard other healthcare workers act poorly towards returning patients after training. Many poor behaviours from healthcare workers stemmed from frustration with the clinical flow and their overburdened work environment. Many participants (78%) believed that the Welcome Back approach helped improve client-provider relationships. Conclusions The Welcome Back approach supported healthcare workers to improve service provision for patients reinitiating antiretroviral therapy. Further support is needed to help providers consistently deliver services in line with the Welcome Back approach. Institutional level changes are required to implement patient-centred and trust-based models of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie A Bisnauth
- Department of Public Health, Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Community Health, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Natasha Davies
- Department of Public Health, Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Sibongile Monareng
- Department of Public Health, Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Helen Struthers
- Department of Public Health, Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Division of Infectious Diseases & HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - James A McIntyre
- Department of Public Health, Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa.,School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kate Rees
- Department of Public Health, Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Community Health, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Masese LN, Ludwig-Barron NT, Mbogo L, Guthrie BL, Musyoki H, Bukusi D, Sinkele W, Gitau E, Farquhar C, Monroe-Wise A. Occupational roles and risks of community-embedded peer educators providing HIV, hepatitis C and harm reduction services to persons who inject drugs in Nairobi, Kenya. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0278210. [PMID: 36454881 PMCID: PMC9714845 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Kenya, harm reduction organizations have adopted evidence-based peer educator (PE) programs, where former people who inject drugs (PWID) serve as community health liaisons to engage PWID in HIV, HCV and harm reduction services. While PEs play an integral role in healthcare delivery, little data exists on their roles, risks and experiences working with PWID, which may be used to inform local harm reduction policy. METHODS PE's from two harm reduction sites in Nairobi were randomly and purposively selected to participate in semi-structured in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis was conducted to characterize the expected versus actual roles that PEs employ while serving PWID, personal motivation and/or challenges and occupational health risks. Data was analyzed using Atlas.ti software. RESULTS Twenty PEs participated in the study. On average, PEs were 37 years of age, with 3 years of service. Female representation was 30%. Expected responsibilities included locating clients, establishing rapport, educating and escorting clients to addiction care facilities. Additional roles included attending to clients outside of work hours, escorting clients to medical appointments and facilitating patient-provider discussions. Occupational health risks included harassment by police and drug dealers, needle sticks, and close proximity to drug use environments that could prompt drug relapse. Despite these challenges and risks, PEs are motivated by their personal experiences of overcoming addiction with help from harm reduction programs. CONCLUSIONS/RECOMMENDATIONS PEs play a vital role in HIV, HCV and harm reduction service delivery in Kenya, often exceeding their job descriptions by offering additional support to PWID. Recommendations include (1) advocating for PEs to provide patient navigation services, (2) promoting the use of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), (3) providing occupational mental health services to prevent drug relapse, and (4) collaborating with law enforcement to address harassment, with the ultimate goal of reducing HIV and HCV incidence among PWID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linnet N. Masese
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Natasha T. Ludwig-Barron
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | | | - Brandon L. Guthrie
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | | | | | - William Sinkele
- Support for Addiction Prevention and Treatment in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Esther Gitau
- Support for Addiction Prevention and Treatment in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Carey Farquhar
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Aliza Monroe-Wise
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
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Øgård-Repål A, Berg RC, Skogen V, Fossum M. "They make a difference": a qualitative study of providers' experiences of peer support in outpatient clinics for people living with HIV. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1380. [PMID: 36411443 PMCID: PMC9676711 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08810-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the life expectancy of people living with HIV has increased, they are still often disconnected from society through stigma and discrimination. Peer support has been found to increase social support. Given the limited research on peer support from the providers' perspective, this study explored how peer supporters experience their roles and contributions in outpatient clinics (OPCs). Additionally, healthcare professionals' perceptions of working with peer supporters in OPCs were examined. METHODS: This qualitative study included purposively selected peer supporters (n = 10) and healthcare professionals (n = 5) from five OPCs in Norway in 2020. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted in Norwegian or English, using interview guides. Interview transcripts were analysed in NVivo 12 using reflexive and collaborative thematic analysis. RESULTS The results show that peer supporters experience mutual support through emotional and honest interactions. Further, the peer supporters found it essential to negotiate with the service users about their preconception of HIV, confront their views through dialogue, and replicate positive experiences by being credible role models. The participants expressed that integrating peer support in the OPCs' usual care processes increased the prospect of equitable services. Quality of peer support and role clarity were identified as critical components. The results demonstrate that emotional and honest conversations promote support between peers and that peer supporters identify a need for a reframed understanding of HIV by modelling plausible alternative interpretations and coping experiences. CONCLUSIONS This study contributes to knowledge on how peer support can meet the needs of people living with HIV. Incorporating people living with HIV in the co-production and distribution of healthcare services may improve the knowledge and perspectives in healthcare services. However, the skill standards of peer supporters should be addressed when implementing peer support in usual care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Øgård-Repål
- grid.23048.3d0000 0004 0417 6230Centre for Caring Research, Department of Health and Nursing Science, University of Agder, Southern Norway, Grimstad, Aust-Agder, Norway
| | - Rigmor C. Berg
- grid.418193.60000 0001 1541 4204Reviews and Health Technology Assessments, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway ,grid.10919.300000000122595234Department of Community Medicine, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Vegard Skogen
- grid.10919.300000000122595234Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway ,grid.412244.50000 0004 4689 5540Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical Clinic, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Mariann Fossum
- grid.23048.3d0000 0004 0417 6230Centre for Caring Research, Department of Health and Nursing Science, University of Agder, Southern Norway, Grimstad, Aust-Agder, Norway
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Wachira J, Mwangi A, Genberg B, Ngeresa A, Galárraga O, Kimayo S, Dick J, Braitstein P, Wilson I, Hogan J. Continuity of Care is Associated with Higher Appointment Adherence Among HIV Patients in Low Clinician-to-Patient Ratio Facilities in Western Kenya. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3516-3523. [PMID: 35467227 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03686-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We sought to determine the relationship between continuity of care and adherence to clinic appointments among patients receiving HIV care in high vs. low clinician-to-patient (C:P) ratios facilities in western Kenya. This retrospective analysis included 12,751 patients receiving HIV care from the Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) program, between February 2016-2019. We used logistic regression analysis with generalized estimating equations to estimate the relationship between continuity of care (two consecutive visits with the same provider) and adherence to clinic appointments (within 7 days of a scheduled appointment) over time. Adjusting for covariates, patients in low C:P ratio facilities who had continuity of care, were more likely to be adherent to their appointments compared to those without continuity (adjusted odds ratio = 1.50; 95% confidence interval, 1.33-1.69). Continuity in HIV care may be a factor in clinical adherence among patients in low C:P ratio facilities and should therefore be promoted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juddy Wachira
- Department of Mental Health & Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University Eldoret, P.O Box 4604-30100, Eldoret, Kenya.
- Department of Media Studies, School of Literature, Language and Media, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Ann Mwangi
- Department of Maths, Physics and Computing, School of Science and Aerospace Studies, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Becky Genberg
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anthony Ngeresa
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Omar Galárraga
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sylvester Kimayo
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Jonathan Dick
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ira Wilson
- Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Joseph Hogan
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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Freibott CE, Sprague Martinez LS, Rajabiun S, Drainoni ML. Health literacy, health outcomes and community health worker utilization: a cohort study in HIV primary care. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1254. [PMID: 36253814 PMCID: PMC9578207 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08634-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People with HIV (PWH) have complex needs, and those with limited health literacy consistently have poorer HIV-related knowledge and health outcomes. One strategy to facilitate better outcomes for PWH is the inclusion of community health workers (CHWs) into care teams. This cohort study examines the effect of health literacy on clinical outcomes and utilization of CHW services among PWH enrolled in a CHW intervention. The secondary aim is to characterize most common purposes of CHW encounters. Methods PWH (n = 209) enrolled in a CHW intervention with completed 6-month follow-up evaluation visits were included. Health literacy level was measured at baseline with the BRIEF tool and categorized into inadequate, marginal, and adequate health literacy. Adjusted logistic regressions assessed the effect of health literacy on viral load suppression, HIV primary care visits at 6-month follow-up, CHW utilization and purpose of CHW encounter. Purpose of CHW encounters included logistical support, accompany to appointment, transportation coordination, concrete services, coaching, and emotional support. Linear regression assessed the association between purpose of CHW encounters and CHW utilization. Results Individuals with inadequate health literacy were more likely to receive coaching from CHWs (p = 0.029), and individuals with marginal health literacy were more likely to have an HIV primary care visit at 6 months (p = 0.044). Individuals receiving transportation coordination, concrete services, coaching, and emotional support had more total CHW encounters. Conclusions Purpose of encounter was highly correlated with frequency of CHW encounters, while health literacy status was not. This suggests individuals receiving these services require more assistance from CHWs, regardless of health literacy level. Training CHWs to conduct comprehensive social needs assessment and screening for risk factors at the initial visit with clients can identify resources and guide CHW service delivery as part of the care team. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-08634-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina E Freibott
- Department of Health Law, Policy & Management, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Talbot Building, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
| | - Linda S Sprague Martinez
- Center for Innovation in Social Work and Health, Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA, USA.,Macro Department, Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Serena Rajabiun
- Department of Public Health, Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA, USA
| | - Mari-Lynn Drainoni
- Department of Health Law, Policy & Management, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Talbot Building, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.,Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.,Evans Center for Implementation and Improvement Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
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López Rios J, Lentz C, Balán IC, Grosskopf N, D'Angelo A, Stief M, Grov C. Engagement in Care Among Newly Diagnosed HIV-Positive Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex With Men in the United States: Results From the Together 5,000 Study. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2022; 34:349-364. [PMID: 36181497 PMCID: PMC9619412 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2022.34.5.349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
One-quarter of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) with diagnosed HIV are not engaged in HIV care. Between 2018 and 2019, 50 GBMSM completed qualitative interviews 3 months after receiving an HIV-positive result. Interviews explored barriers to and facilitators of engagement and retention in HIV testing and care. Thematic analysis revealed five major themes: (1) reason for HIV testing (e.g., self-testing), (2) linkage to care (e.g., appointment/logistic issues and social support as encouragement), (3) barriers to engagement in care (e.g., financial burden, competing priorities, and fear/stigma), (4) facilitators of engagement (e.g., financial assistance, patient-provider relationships, auxiliary support services, and health agency), and (5) PrEP as a missed prevention opportunity. Addressing individual-, social-, and policy-level barriers could improve GBMSM's engagement in HIV care. Further, capitalizing on GBMSM's health agency through partnerships with local agencies and fostering better patient-provider relationships could optimize HIV care continuity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier López Rios
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Cody Lentz
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Iván C Balán
- Center for Translational Behavioral Science, Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, Florida
| | - Nicholas Grosskopf
- Department of Health and Human Performance, York College of the City University of New York, Queens, New York
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York. Christian Grov is also affiliated with the CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York
| | - Alexa D'Angelo
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York. Christian Grov is also affiliated with the CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York
| | - Matthew Stief
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York. Christian Grov is also affiliated with the CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York
| | - Christian Grov
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York. Christian Grov is also affiliated with the CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York
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An Y, Ntombela N, Hoffmann CJ, Fashina T, Mabuto T, Owczarzak J. "That makes me feel human": a qualitative evaluation of the acceptability of an HIV differentiated care intervention for formerly incarcerated people re-entering community settings in South Africa. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1092. [PMID: 36028825 PMCID: PMC9415240 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08469-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Correctional settings in South Africa have disproportionately high rates of HIV infection; a large number of inmates living with HIV return to the community each year. The transition community adherence club (TCAC) intervention was a differentiated care delivery approach with structural and peer components designed to increase antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and HIV care engagement following release from incarceration. The objective of this study was to assess the acceptability of the TCAC intervention among HIV-infected community re-entrants to inform program revisions and future intervention designs. METHODS This was a qualitative study set within a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of the TCAC intervention in South Africa. We conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 16 re-entrants living with HIV and assigned to the intervention arm. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, translated, and de-identified. Transcripts were coded and analyzed using content analysis, and acceptability was assessed using the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA). RESULTS Overall, study participants reported that the TCAC intervention was acceptable. Development of supportive relationships between participants, non-judgmental attitudes from peer-facilitators, and perceived effectiveness of the intervention to support ART adherence and HIV care were noted as the most valued components. An altruistic desire to help other participants facing similar post-incarceration and HIV-related challenges was a key motivator for TCAC attendance. A lack of access to reliable transportation to intervention sites and clinic-based medication collection were described as burdens to program participation. Illicit drug use by other group members and negative social influences were also identified as potential barriers to optimal program engagement. CONCLUSION The TCAC was a well-accepted model of differentiated care delivery among re-entrants living with HIV in South Africa. To further enhance intervention acceptability for future scale-ups, program revisions should address logistical barriers related to reaching TCAC sites and implementing ART distribution at TCAC group sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangxi An
- Johns Hopkins University, 1550 Orleans St, CRB II - 1M11, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | | | - Christopher J Hoffmann
- Johns Hopkins University, 1550 Orleans St, CRB II - 1M11, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Aurum Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA.
| | - Tolulope Fashina
- Johns Hopkins University, 1550 Orleans St, CRB II - 1M11, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | | | - Jill Owczarzak
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
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Glick JL, Jivapong B, Russo R, Pelaez D, Piser R, Footer K, Sherman SG. Cultivating PEARL (Promoting Empowerment and Risk Reduction): Formative Research for a PrEP Intervention Among Female Sex Workers in Baltimore, Maryland. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2664-2675. [PMID: 35124751 PMCID: PMC9885761 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03600-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a vital component of comprehensive HIV prevention among female sex workers (FSW). There are limited PrEP interventions targeting FSW in the U.S., who have high HIV risk. Formative research was conducted to inform PEARL (Promoting Empowerment And Risk Reduction), a PrEP intervention for FSW in Baltimore, MD, including a community forum, key informant interviews with providers, and focus group discussions with FSW. FSW and providers acknowledged challenges to building rapport and establishing continuity in care settings. FSW reported low PrEP awareness, with high interest once aware. FSW and providers reported uptake barriers including perceived financial issues, lack of PrEP awareness, and mistrust of the pharmaceutical industry. Concerns were raised about substance use and daily PrEP adherence. Developing a tailored PrEP intervention for FSW necessitates multiple perspectives (e.g. FSW, service providers). Resumen La profilaxis preexposición (PrEP) es un componente vital de la prevención integral del VIH para las trabajadoras sexuales (TSF). En los Estados Unidos, hay pocas intervenciones de PrEP dirigidas a las TSF, quienes experiencian un riesgo elevado de contraer el VIH. Se realizó una investigación formativa para informar a PEARL (Promoción del empoderamiento y la reducción de riesgos), una intervención de PrEP para TSF en Baltimore, MD-la cual incluyó un foro comunitario, entrevistas con proveedores de servicios a las TSF y discusiones entre grupos focales de TSF. TSF y proveedores de servicio reconocieron los retos de mantener buenas relaciones y establecer continuidad en los servicios de salud. TSF exhibieron conocimiento limitado sobre la PrEP, pero expresaron gran interés en la PrEP después de estar informadas. TSF y los proveedores de servicios hablaron de barreras aceptando a la PrEP, incluyendo problemas financieros percibidos, falta de conocimiento sobre la PrEP y desconfianza en la industria farmacéutica. Se expresaron preocupaciones sobre el uso de sustancias y la adherencia diaria a la PrEP. El desarrollo de una intervención de PrEP personalizada para TSF requiere varias perspectivas (por ejemplo, TSF, proveedores de servicios).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Glick
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Belinda Jivapong
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rienna Russo
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Danielle Pelaez
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Rebecca Piser
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Katherine Footer
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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Tobin KE, Heidari O, Winiker A, Pollock S, Rothwell MD, Alexander K, Owczarzak J, Latkin C. Peer Approaches to Improve HIV Care Cascade Outcomes: a Scoping Review Focused on Peer Behavioral Mechanisms. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2022; 19:251-264. [PMID: 35798989 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-022-00611-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There are three main components of peer-based approaches regardless of type: education, social support, and social norms. The purpose of this scoping review was to examine evidence in the literature among peer-based interventions and programs of components and behavioral mechanisms utilized to improve HIV care cascade outcomes. RECENT FINDINGS Of 522 articles found, 40 studies were included for data abstraction. The study outcomes represented the entire HIV care cascade from HIV testing to viral suppression. Most were patient navigator models and 8 of the studies included all three components. Social support was the most prevalent component. Role modeling of behaviors was less commonly described. This review highlighted the peer behavioral mechanisms that operate in various types of peer approaches to improve HIV care and outcomes in numerous settings and among diverse populations. The peer-based approach is flexible and commonly used, particularly in resource-poor settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin E Tobin
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Omeid Heidari
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Abigail Winiker
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sarah Pollock
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Melissa Davey Rothwell
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Jill Owczarzak
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carl Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Rajabiun S, Killion K, Lennon-Dearing R, Williams BB, Hirschi M. Using Implementation Science to Promote Integration and Sustainability of Community Health Workers in the HIV Workforce. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 90:S65-S73. [PMID: 35703757 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community health worker (CHW) interventions are an evidence-based practice adopted by health care settings to increase retention in care and viral suppression for people living with HIV (PLWH) from racial/ethnic minority communities. However, disparate funding, unclear roles vis a vis other care team members, limited training and promotion opportunities, and a lack of standards for wages and tasks limit the ability to effectively use CHWs as part of the health care team. Guided by the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, and Sustainment and Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance frameworks, this study describes the key determinants for CHW integration and sustainability at 3 agencies in Shelby County, TN, to improve viral suppression and reduce disparities among rural and urban people living with HIV. SETTING Memphis Transitional Grant Area (TGA) which includes 8 rural and urban counties in west Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi. METHODS Seventeen key informants were identified using purposeful and snowball sampling techniques, including community and agency leadership staff, frontline staff, and faith leaders. RESULTS Key determinants of CHW integration include establishing clear and standardized CHW roles within and across organizations, facilitating interorganizational networks, and leveraging funds for livable CHW wages and sustainable positions. Training strategies that strengthen the CHW workforce include content related to trauma-informed care, managing stress, and cultural humility. CONCLUSION Several inner and outer settings and innovation and bridging factors affect CHW positions. Data collected will inform the implementation and sustainment of future policies and interventions intended to improve HIV care continuum outcomes and reduce disparities for PLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Rajabiun
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA; and
| | - Kate Killion
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA; and
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Beeman A, Bengtson AM, Swartz A, Colvin CJ, Lurie MN. Cyclical Engagement in HIV Care: A Qualitative Study of Clinic Transfers to Re-enter HIV Care in Cape Town, South Africa. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2387-2396. [PMID: 35061116 PMCID: PMC9167245 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03582-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Long-term patient engagement and retention in HIV care is an ongoing challenge in South Africa's strained health system. However, some patients thought to be "lost to follow-up" (LTFU) may have "transferred" clinics to receive care elsewhere. Through semi-structured interviews, we explored the relationship between clinic transfer and long-term patient engagement among 19 treatment-experienced people living with HIV (PLWH) who self-identified as having engaged in a clinic transfer at least once since starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Gugulethu, Cape Town. Our findings suggest that patient engagement is often fluid, as PLWH cycle in and out of care multiple times during their lifetime. The linear nature of the HIV care cascade model poorly describes the lived realities of PLWH on established treatment. Further research is needed to explore strategies for reducing unplanned clinic transfers and offer more supportive care to new and returning patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aly Beeman
- Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Angela M Bengtson
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Box GS-121-2, Room 221, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Alison Swartz
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Box GS-121-2, Room 221, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Christopher J Colvin
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Box GS-121-2, Room 221, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Mark N Lurie
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Box GS-121-2, Room 221, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, 02912, USA.
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Brown G, Reeders D, Cogle A, Allan B, Howard C, Rule J, Chong S, Gleeson D. Tackling structural stigma: a systems perspective. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25 Suppl 1:e25924. [PMID: 35818874 PMCID: PMC9274342 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Structural stigma in the global HIV response is a “moving target” that constantly evolves as the epidemic changes. Tackling structural stigma requires an understanding of the drivers and facilitators of stigma in complex community, policy and health systems. In this paper, we present findings from a study adopting a systems perspective to understand how to tackle structural stigma via the Meaningful Involvement of People with HIV/AIDS (MIPA), while highlighting the challenges in demonstrating peer leadership from people living with HIV (PLHIV). Methods Through a long‐term ongoing community‐research collaboration (2015–2023), the study applied systems thinking methods to draw together the insights of over 90 peer staff from 10 Australian community and peer organizations. We used hypothetical narratives, affinity methods and causal loop diagrams to co‐create system maps that visualize the factors that influence the extent to which peer leadership is expected, respected, sought‐out and funded in the Australian context. We then developed draft indicators of what we should see happening when PLHIV peer leadership and MIPA is enabled to challenge structural stigma. Results Participants in the collaboration identified the interactions at a system level, which can enable or constrain the quality and influence of PLHIV peer leadership. Participants identified that effective peer leadership is itself affected by structural stigma, and peer leaders and the programmes that support and enable peer leadership must navigate a complex network of causal pathways and strategic pitfalls. Participants identified that indicators for effective PLHIV peer leadership in terms of engagement, alignment, adaptation and influence also required indicators for policy and service organizations to recognize their own system role to value and enable PLHIV peer leadership. Failing to strengthen and incorporate PLHIV leadership within broader systems of policy making and health service provision was identified as an example of structural stigma. Conclusions Incorporating PLHIV leadership creates a virtuous cycle, because, as PLHIV voices are heard and trusted, the case for their inclusion only gets stronger. This paper argues that a systems perspective can help to guide the most productive leverage points for intervention to tackle structural stigma and promote effective PLHIV leadership.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham Brown
- Centre for Social Impact, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Daniel Reeders
- School of Regulation and Global Governance, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.,National Association of People Living with HIV Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aaron Cogle
- National Association of People Living with HIV Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brent Allan
- Qthink Consulting, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Formerly of Living Positive Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chris Howard
- Queensland Positive People, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - John Rule
- National Association of People Living with HIV Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Susan Chong
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah Gleeson
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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A Scoping Review of Peer Navigation Programs for People Living with HIV: Form, Function and Effects. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:4034-4054. [PMID: 35672548 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03729-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
This scoping review maps recent research into peer navigation programs for people living with HIV. Four databases were systematically searched in June 2020. Results were screened according to defined criteria and were not restricted to any design, outcome or country. Six papers drew from randomised control trials, five from quasi-experimental or pragmatic trials, and four panel, eight qualitative, three mixed method and one cross-sectional designs were included for review. Programs incorporated health systems navigation and social support. Authors provided strong theoretical bases for peers to enhance program effects. Studies primarily reported program effects on continuum of care outcomes. Further research is required to capture the role HIV peer navigators play in preventing disease and promoting quality of life, mental health, and disease self-management in diverse settings and populations. Peer programs are complex, social interventions. Future work should evaluate detailed information about peer navigators, their activities, the quality of peer engagement as well as employee and community support structures to improve quality and impact.
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Pyra M, Johnson AK, Devlin S, Uvin AZ, Irby S, Stewart E, Blum C, Green M, Haider S, Hirschhorn LR, Ridgway JP. HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Use and Persistence among Black Ciswomen: "Women Need to Protect Themselves, Period". J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2022; 9:820-829. [PMID: 33733424 PMCID: PMC7968858 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-021-01020-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disparities in HIV incidence and PrEP use among Black ciswomen remain. We examine factors associated with PrEP persistence using mixed methods. SETTING Black ciswomen in Chicago, IL, prescribed PrEP at a federally qualified health center (FQHC). METHODS We used electronic health data to determine PrEP persistence (Proportion of Days Covered ≥86% at 6 months) and tested demographic and clinical factors in logistic regressions. We interviewed eight Black ciswomen, purposefully selected by PrEP persistence. RESULTS Among 112 Black ciswomen, 18% were persistent. In adjusted models, neighborhood, visit reason (at initiation), and initiation year were significantly associated with persistence. Qualitatively, we found little evidence of cost or adherence as barriers; participants reported low community awareness, importance of providers, and concerns around stigma, side effects, and pregnancy while using PrEP. CONCLUSION While persistence among Black ciswomen was low, patients were often making decisions based on perceived HIV risk. We identified real-world barriers to address in future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pyra
- Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Amy K Johnson
- Ann & Robert H. Luries Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Samantha Devlin
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - A Ziggy Uvin
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Cori Blum
- Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Sadia Haider
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lisa R Hirschhorn
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jessica P Ridgway
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Erickson M, Shannon K, Ranville F, Magagula P, Braschel M, Ratzlaff A, Pick N, Kestler M, Deering K. Interpersonal violence and other social-structural barriers associated with needing HIV treatment support for women living with HIV. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP9926-NP9952. [PMID: 33403922 PMCID: PMC8507564 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520983257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Women living with HIV (WLWH), experience disproportionate rates of violence, along with suboptimal HIV health outcomes, despite recent advancements in HIV treatment, known as antiretroviral therapy (ART). The objectives of this study were to: (a) describe different types of support needed to take ART and (b) investigate the social and structural correlates associated with needing support for ART adherence among WLWH. Data are drawn from Sexual health and HIV/AIDS: Women's Longitudinal Needs Assessment, a community-based open research cohort with cisgender and transgender WLWH, aged 14+ who live or access HIV services in Metro Vancouver, Canada (2014-present). Baseline and semi-annual questionnaires are administered by community interviewers alongside a clinical visit with a sexual health research nurse. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression using generalized estimating equations and an exchangeable working correlation matrix was used to model factors associated with needing supports for ART adherence. Among 276 WLWH, 51% (n = 142) reported needing support for ART adherence; 95% of participants reported lifetime gender-based violence and identified many interpersonal, structural, community, and clinical supports that would facilitate and support ART adherence. In multivariable logistic regression, participants who were Indigenous (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.70, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.07-2.72), or otherwise racialized (AOR: 2.36, 95% CI : 1.09-5.12) versus white, experienced recent gender-based physical violence (AOR : 1.54, 95% CI : 1.03-2.31), lifetime post-traumatic stress disorder (AOR : 1.97, 95% CI : 1.22-3.18), and recent illicit drug use (AOR : 2.15, 95% CI : 1.43-3.22), had increased odds of needing support for ART adherence. This research suggests a need for trauma-informed, culturally safe and culturally responsive practice and services for WLWH along the HIV care continuum to support ART adherence. All services should be developed by, with, and for WLWH and tailored according to gender identity, taking into account history, culture, and trauma, including the negative impacts of settler colonialism for Indigenous people.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kate Shannon
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Flo Ranville
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | | | - Andrea Ratzlaff
- Department of Family Medicine, Queens University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Neora Pick
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Oak Tree Clinic, British Columbia Women’s Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Mary Kestler
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Oak Tree Clinic, British Columbia Women’s Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Kathleen Deering
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Aung S, Hardy N, Chrysanthopoulou S, Htun N, Kyaw A, Tun MS, Aung KW, Kantor R, Rana A. Evaluation of peer-to-peer HIV counseling in Myanmar: a measure of knowledge, adherence, and barriers. AIDS Care 2022; 34:762-770. [PMID: 33749465 PMCID: PMC10715989 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1902929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
In Myanmar, an Asian country with one of the highest HIV-1 prevalence rates, counseling prior to initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) is standard care, either by a healthcare worker (standard counselor, SC) or trained counselor who is also living with HIV (peer counselor, PC). PC is commonly utilized in Myanmar and other resource-limited settings. However, its benefit over SC is unclear. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of people living with HIV (PLWH), who completed either only PC or only SC before treatment initiation across four cities in Myanmar. Participants were evaluated for HIV knowledge, stigma, antiretroviral adherence, barriers to care, social support satisfaction and attitudes regarding both counseling processes. Bivariate analyses and multivariable mixed effects modeling were conducted to compare differences in these measures among PC and SC participants. Among 1006 participants (49% PC; 51% SC), 52% were females and median age was 37 years in those receiving PC and 40 years in those receiving SC. More than 70% of participants in both groups achieved up to grade school education. The average duration since HIV diagnosis was 4.6 years for PC and 5.7 years for SC participants. HIV knowledge and attitudes regarding counseling were good in both groups and more PC participants credited their HIV counselor for knowledge (75% vs 63%, p < 0.001). Compared to SC, PC participants had lower enacted stigma (Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR) 0.75, Confidence Interval (CI) [0.65, 0.86]), mean internalized stigma (-0.24, CI [-0.34, -0.14]), and risk of antiretroviral therapy non-adherence (Odds Ratio 0.59, CI [0.40, 0.88]), while reporting higher levels of barriers to care (9.63, CI [8.20, 11.75]). Our findings demonstrate potential benefits of PC compared to SC, and support the utilization of PC to enhance HIV health outcomes within the unique societal and geographical context of Myanmar, and possibly beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Aung
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California San Francisco, California, CA (USA)
| | - Nicole Hardy
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | | | | | - Aung Kyaw
- National AIDS Programme, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | | | - Rami Kantor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI (USA)
| | - Aadia Rana
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama-Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL (USA)
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Kiguba R, Ndagije HB, Nambasa V, Katureebe C, Zakumumpa H, Nanyonga SM, Ssanyu JN, Tregunno P, Harrison K, Merle CS, Raguenaud ME, Kitutu FE. Implementation of a peer support intervention to promote the detection, reporting and management of adverse drug reactions in people living with HIV in Uganda: a protocol for a quasi-experimental study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e056039. [PMID: 35589351 PMCID: PMC9121495 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients have contributed <1% of spontaneous adverse drug reaction (ADR) reports in Uganda's pharmacovigilance database. Peer support combined with mobile technologies could empower people living with HIV (PLHIV) to report ADRs and improve ADR management through linkage to care. We seek to test the feasibility and effect of a peer support intervention on ADR reporting by PLHIV receiving combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) in Uganda; identify barriers and facilitators to the intervention; and characterise ADR reporting and management. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a quasi-experimental study to be implemented over 4 months at 12 intervention and 12 comparison cART sites from four geographical regions of Uganda. Per region, two blocks each with a tertiary, secondary and primary care cART site will be selected by simple random sampling. Blocks per region will be randomly assigned to intervention and comparison arms.Study units will include cART sites and PLHIV receiving cART. PLHIV at intervention sites will be assigned to peer supporters to empower them to report ADRs directly to the National Pharmacovigilance Centre (NPC). Peer supporters will be expert clients from among PLHIV and/or recognised community health workers.Direct patient reporting of ADRs to NPC will leverage the Med Safety App and toll-free unstructured supplementary service data interface to augment traditional pharmacovigilance methods.The primary outcomes are attrition rate measured by number of study participants who remain in the study until the end of follow-up at 4 months; and number of ADR reports submitted to NPC by PLHIV as measured by questionnaire and data abstraction from the national pharmacovigilance database at baseline and 4 months. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study received ethical approval from: School of Health Sciences Research and Ethics Committee at Makerere University (MAKSHSREC-2020-64) and Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (HS1206ES). Results will be shared with PLHIV, policy-makers, the public and academia. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN75989485.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Kiguba
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Victoria Nambasa
- Directorate of Product Safety, National Drug Authority, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Henry Zakumumpa
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Stella Maris Nanyonga
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Phil Tregunno
- Vigilance and Risk Management of Medicines, Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency, London, UK
| | - Kendal Harrison
- Vigilance and Risk Management of Medicines, Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency, London, UK
| | - Corinne S Merle
- Special Programme for Research & Training In Tropical Diseases (TDR), World Health Organization, Geneve, Switzerland
| | - Marie-Eve Raguenaud
- Special Programme for Research & Training In Tropical Diseases (TDR), World Health Organization, Geneve, Switzerland
| | - Freddy Eric Kitutu
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Brennan DJ, Charest M, Turpin A, Griffiths D, Adam BD, Maxwell J, McCrady K, Ahmed R. "It's a win for the clinic, it's a win for the frontline, but, most importantly, it's a win for the client": Task Shifting HIV Prevention Services from Clinicians to Community Health Workers in Ontario, Canada. SEXUALITY RESEARCH & SOCIAL POLICY : JOURNAL OF NSRC : SR & SP 2022; 20:780-792. [PMID: 35505827 PMCID: PMC9049009 DOI: 10.1007/s13178-022-00721-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Despite strong evidence from low- and middle-income countries supporting the use of task shifting to provide quality, cost-effective HIV-related health services, this strategy has been adopted less widely in high-income countries such as Canada. Methods In 2020, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 19 clinicians (e.g., psychologists, nurses, physicians) and 14 community health workers (CHWs) in Ontario to examine their perspectives on the prospect of shifting HIV/STBBI testing services and PrEP in Ontario, Canada. Interviews were transcribed and then analyzed using content analysis. A community consultation with key stakeholders was also performed to assess the validity of the findings. Results There was substantial agreement between clinicians and CHWs with respect to shifting specific tasks related to HIV/STBBI testing and PrEP. In particular, most participants felt that rapid HIV testing could and should be provided by CHWs and that ASOs could be ideal sites for clients to obtain and use self-testing kits for STBBIs. Most respondents agreed that CHWs have the skills and expertise required to perform most non-clinical services related to PrEP (e.g., pre-counselling, follow-up, case management). The co-location of clinicians and CHWs could help support the development of task shifting initiatives. Conclusion Findings indicate that there is enthusiasm among both clinicians and CHWs with respect to shifting HIV prevention services. Creative solutions are required to have a meaningful impact on HIV incidence in this population. Policy Implications With adequate training and supervision, non-regulated CHWs should be allowed to provide certain HIV prevention services such as rapid HIV testing. A provincial, publicly funded program for PrEP is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Brennan
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor St. W, Toronto, ON M5S 1V4 Canada
| | - Maxime Charest
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor St. W, Toronto, ON M5S 1V4 Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON Canada
| | - Aaron Turpin
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor St. W, Toronto, ON M5S 1V4 Canada
| | | | - Barry D. Adam
- Departments of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminology, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON Canada
- Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, ON Canada
| | | | - Keith McCrady
- 2-Spirited Peoples of the 1st Nations, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Robbie Ahmed
- Alliance for South Asian AIDS Prevention, Toronto, ON Canada
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Øgård-Repål A, Berg RC, Skogen V, Fossum M. Peer support in an outpatient clinic for people living with human immunodeficiency virus: a qualitative study of service users' experiences. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:549. [PMID: 35468797 PMCID: PMC9036816 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07958-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has become a manageable condition with increasing life expectancy, people living with HIV (PLHIV) are still often isolated from society due to stigma and discrimination. Peer support provides one avenue for increased social support. Given the limited research on peer support from the perspective of PLHIV, this study explored their experiences of peer support organised by healthcare professionals in an outpatient clinical setting. METHODS The study used a qualitative, descriptive research design for an in-depth understanding of peer support provided to PLHIV in the context of outpatient clinics. Healthcare professionals contributed to the recruitment of 16 participants. We conducted in-depth interviews about participants' experiences of peer support, and performed a directed content analysis of the data. Further, we sorted the data into pre-determined categories. RESULTS The pre-determined categories constituted attachment, social integration, an opportunity for nurturance, reassurance of worth, reliable alliance, and guidance. The identified themes were: gained emotional support, disclosure behaviour allowed garnering of emotional support, non-disclosure promoted the need to meet a peer, experienced a sense of belonging, activated an opportunity for mutual support, means to re-establish belief in one's own worth, perceived a positive affirmation of disease management, facilitated dialogue about disease management, the outpatient clinic as a safe place, and a setting for flexible, individualised support. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the peer support experiences of PLHIV in the context of outpatient clinics. The participants' experiences align with previous findings, showing that peer support contributes to mutual emotional support between peers. This is particularly important in cultures of non-disclosure where PLHIV experience intersectional stigma. Additionally, our results show outpatient clinics to be supportive surroundings for facilitating peer support, ensuring confidentiality in peer support outreach. Therefore, peer support contributes positively to individualising outpatient clinic services to meet the changing needs of PLHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Øgård-Repål
- Centre for Caring Research- Southern Norway, Department of Health and Nursing Science, University of Agder, Grimstad, Aust-Agder, Norway.
| | - Rigmor C Berg
- Divison of Health Services, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Vegard Skogen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical Clinic, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Mariann Fossum
- Centre for Caring Research- Southern Norway, Department of Health and Nursing Science, University of Agder, Grimstad, Aust-Agder, Norway
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Becker TD, Poku OB, Chen X, Wong J, Mandavia A, Huang M, Chen Y, Huang D, Ngo H, Yang LH. The impact of China-to-US immigration on structural and cultural determinants of HIV-related stigma: implications for HIV care of Chinese immigrants. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2022; 27:509-528. [PMID: 32668975 PMCID: PMC7854980 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2020.1791316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: Asian Americans have poor HIV-related outcomes, yet culturally salient barriers to care remain unclear, limiting development of targeted interventions for this group. We applied the 'what matters most' theory of stigma to identify structural and cultural factors that shape the nature of stigma before and after immigration from China to the US.Design: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 immigrants to New York from China, recruited from an HIV clinic and community centers. Deductive followed by focal inductive qualitative analyses examined how Chinese cultural values (lian, guanxi, renqing) and structural factors influenced stigma before and after immigration.Results: In China, HIV stigma was felt through the loss of lian (moral status) and limited guanxi (social network) opportunities. A social structure characterized by limited HIV knowledge, discriminatory treatment from healthcare systems, and human rights violations impinged on the ability of people living with HIV to fulfill culturally valued goals. Upon moving to the US, positions of structural vulnerability shifted to enable maintenance of lian and formation of new guanxi, thus ameliorating aspects of stigma.Conclusions: HIV prevention and stigma reduction interventions among Chinese immigrants may be most effective by both addressing structural constraints and facilitating achievement of cultural values through clinical, peer, and group interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy D Becker
- Department of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai Hospital, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ohemaa B Poku
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Xinlin Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jeffrey Wong
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Amar Mandavia
- Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Minda Huang
- Department of Psychology, University of Hartford, West Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Yuqi Chen
- Department of Educational and Psychological Studies, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Debbie Huang
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hong Ngo
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lawrence H Yang
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences, College of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
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MacKellar D, Hlophe T, Ujamaa D, Pals S, Dlamini M, Dube L, Suraratdecha C, Williams D, Byrd J, Tobias J, Mndzebele P, Behel S, Pathmanathan I, Mazibuko S, Tilahun E, Ryan C. Antiretroviral therapy initiation and retention among clients who received peer-delivered linkage case management and standard linkage services, Eswatini, 2016-2020: retrospective comparative cohort study. Arch Public Health 2022; 80:74. [PMID: 35260189 PMCID: PMC8905856 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-022-00810-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persons living with HIV infection (PLHIV) who are diagnosed in community settings in sub-Saharan Africa are particularly vulnerable to barriers to care that prevent or delay many from obtaining antiretroviral therapy (ART). METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study to assess if a package of peer-delivered linkage case management and treatment navigation services (CommLink) was more effective than peer-delivered counseling, referral, and telephone follow-up (standard linkage services, SLS) in initiating and retaining PLHIV on ART after diagnosis in community settings in Eswatini. HIV-test records of 773 CommLink and 769 SLS clients aged ≥ 15 years diagnosed between March 2016 and March 2018, matched by urban and rural settings of diagnosis, were selected for the study. CommLink counselors recorded resolved and unresolved barriers to care (e.g., perceived wellbeing, fear of partner response, stigmatization) during a median of 52 days (interquartile range: 35-69) of case management. RESULTS Twice as many CommLink than SLS clients initiated ART by 90 days of diagnosis overall (88.4% vs. 37.9%, adjusted relative risk (aRR): 2.33, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.97, 2.77) and during test and treat when all PLHIV were eligible for ART (96.2% vs. 37.1%, aRR: 2.59, 95% CI: 2.20, 3.04). By 18 months of diagnosis, 54% more CommLink than SLS clients were initiated and retained on ART (76.3% vs. 49.5%, aRR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.33, 1.79). Peer counselors helped resolve 896 (65%) of 1372 identified barriers of CommLink clients. Compared with clients with ≥ 3 unresolved barriers to care, 42% (aRR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.19, 1.68) more clients with 1-2 unresolved barriers, 44% (aRR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.25, 1.66) more clients with all barriers resolved, and 54% (aRR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.30, 1.81) more clients who had no identified barriers were initiated and retained on ART by 18 months of diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS To improve early ART initiation and retention among PLHIV diagnosed in community settings, HIV prevention programs should consider providing a package of peer-delivered linkage case management and treatment navigation services. Clients with multiple unresolved barriers to care measured as part of that package should be triaged for differentiated linkage and retention services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan MacKellar
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | | | | | - Sherri Pals
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Lenhle Dube
- Eswatini Ministry of Health, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Chutima Suraratdecha
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Daniel Williams
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | - James Tobias
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Stephanie Behel
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ishani Pathmanathan
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | - Caroline Ryan
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mbabane, Eswatini
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Iryawan AR, Stoicescu C, Sjahrial F, Nio K, Dominich A. The impact of peer support on testing, linkage to and engagement in HIV care for people who inject drugs in Indonesia: qualitative perspectives from a community-led study. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:16. [PMID: 35148776 PMCID: PMC8832667 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00595-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction People who use, including those who inject, drugs in Indonesia are disproportionately affected by HIV, but tend to be diagnosed at a late stage of infection, delay initiation to and have poor rates of retention in antiretroviral treatment, resulting in high rates of morbidity and mortality. In addition to legal, policy and health system barriers, PWID may be hesitant to engage in HIV, treatment and care due to lack of knowledge, distrust of the health care system, and stigma related to their dual drug use and HIV status. Implementation of formal peer support initiatives may reduce provider- and individual-level barriers and increase testing, linkage to, and engagement in HIV care among people who use drugs. Methods We conducted a community-led qualitative study to explore the impacts of peer support for people who inject drugs on HIV care access and engagement in Indonesia. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 participants in Jakarta and Bandung. Thematic analysis was used to explore how people who inject drugs living with HIV (PWID LHIV) (n = 8), peer support workers (n = 6), and service providers (n = 6) perceived peer support provision by non-governmental organisations. Results Participants unanimously described peer support as beneficial. Peer support workers were widely credited with facilitating access to HIV testing, referral to care, uptake of and adherence to antiretroviral treatment, as well as sustaining engagement in care for PWID. Support mechanisms that facilitated positive peer experiences included provision of HIV knowledge and awareness, emotional support, help with navigating complex bureaucracy, developing trust in health care services, enhancing confidence and motivation, and supporting peers to navigate a wide range of health and social welfare services beyond HIV-related care. Conclusions Findings indicate that peer support can enhance access to testing, linkage to, and engagement in HIV care for people who use drugs living with HIV in Indonesia. In a context of an ongoing HIV epidemic among people who use drugs, reduced funding and policy attention to HIV and harm reduction, there is an urgent need to prioritize peer support interventions to identify people who use drugs facing health risks and link them to appropriate services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arif Rachman Iryawan
- Rumah Cemara, Jalan Gegerkalong Girang, No. 52, Kota Bandung, 40154, West Java, Indonesia.
| | - Claudia Stoicescu
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, USA.,Centre for Criminology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Faisyal Sjahrial
- Rumah Cemara, Jalan Gegerkalong Girang, No. 52, Kota Bandung, 40154, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Kuntanto Nio
- Rumah Cemara, Jalan Gegerkalong Girang, No. 52, Kota Bandung, 40154, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Alexa Dominich
- Rumah Cemara, Jalan Gegerkalong Girang, No. 52, Kota Bandung, 40154, West Java, Indonesia
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Becasen JS, Morris JD, Denard CL, Mullins MM, Kota KK, Higa DH. HIV care outcomes among transgender persons with HIV infection in the United States, 2006-2021. AIDS 2022; 36:305-315. [PMID: 34690282 PMCID: PMC10680039 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES HIV prevalence is an estimated 14% among transgender women (TW) and 3% among transgender men (TM). HIV care is vital for viral suppression but is hindered by transphobia and HIV stigma. We assessed HIV care outcomes among transgender persons (TG) with HIV in the United States. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis of peer-reviewed journal articles. METHODS We searched multiple electronic databases and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's HIV Prevention Research Synthesis database for 2006-September 2020. Eligible reports were US-based studies that included TG and reported HIV care outcomes. Random-effects models were used to calculate HIV care outcome rates. The protocol is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42018079564). RESULTS Few studies reported outcomes for TM; therefore, only TW meta-analysis results are reported. Fifty studies were identified having low-to-medium risk-of-bias scores. Among TW with HIV, 82% had ever received HIV care; 72% were receiving care, and 83% of those were retained in HIV care. Sixty-two percent were currently virally suppressed. Among those receiving HIV care or antiretroviral therapy (ART), 67% were virally suppressed at last test. Sixty-five percent were linked to HIV care 3 months or less after diagnosis. Seventy-one percent had ever been prescribed ART. Approximately 66% were taking ART, and 66% were ART-adherent. Only 56% were currently adherent the previous year. CONCLUSIONS HIV care outcomes for TW were not ideal, and research gaps exists for TM. High heterogeneity was observed; therefore, caution should be taken interpreting the findings. Integrating transgender-specific health needs are needed to improve outcomes of transgender persons across the HIV care continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey S. Becasen
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | | | | | - Mary M. Mullins
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Krishna Kiran Kota
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA
| | - Darrel H. Higa
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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GLICK JL, RUSSO RG, HUANG AKH, JIVAPONG B, RAMASAMY V, ROSMAN LM, PELAEZ DL, SHERMAN SG. ART uptake and adherence among female sex workers (FSW) globally: A scoping review. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:254-284. [PMID: 33301704 PMCID: PMC8190161 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2020.1858137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
We conducted the first scoping literature review on ART uptake and adherence among Female Sex Workers (FSW), following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and Sociological Abstracts. Eligibility criteria included: reporting an ART uptake or adherence result among FSW aged 18 or older; peer-reviewed; published in English between 1996 and 2018. Our search identified 6,735 studies; 30 met eligibility requirements. ART uptake ranges from 0 to 100% and adherence ranges from 50-90%, depending on measurement methods. Uptake and adherence influencing factors are mapped onto a social ecological model (SEM). Knowledge and beliefs, substance use, food insecurity and sex-work engagement were negatively associated, while older age, relationships and social support were positively associated with ART uptake and adherence. Standardised methods to measure uptake and adherence prevalence must be established for data comparison. Evidence regarding ART uptake and adherence barriers and facilitators span multiple SEM levels, although more research is needed regarding structural and occupational level influencers. Results suggest that the multi-level ART uptake and adherence barriers faced by FSW require complex multi-level evidence-based interventions. Study findings can inform ART interventions, future research, and offer guidance to other support services with FSW, such as PrEP interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. GLICK
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA,Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Rienna G. RUSSO
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Aimee Kao-Hsuan HUANG
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Belinda JIVAPONG
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | | | - Lori M. ROSMAN
- Welch Medical Library, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Danielle L PELAEZ
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Susan G. SHERMAN
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore MD, USA
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Rajabiun S, Myers J, Goldberg J, Fortu K, Sullivan M, Berthaud V, Wahome R, Downes A, Cabral HJ. Outcomes from the Adaptation of an Evidence-Based Peer Linkage & Re-Engagement Intervention for Women of Color with HIV in Three Urban Clinics. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:415-424. [PMID: 34609629 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03395-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Peer interventions have demonstrated efficacy with improving HIV health outcomes. Yet, little is known about factors associated with their uptake into the clinic setting. Three urban sites in the US were funded to adapt, implement and evaluate a peer intervention to improve HIV health outcomes for 173 out of care and newly diagnosed women of color. Peers worked with cis and transgender women of color for four months to achieve the goals of linkage and retention in HIV case management and medical care. Results were 96% of women were linked to medical care, 73% were retained in care and 81% were virally suppressed post 12 months. The average duration of the peer intervention was seven months. Women who received four peer encounters had a 10% increase in retention in care and viral suppression. The findings highlight key elements such as dose and duration of client interaction for peer staff as part of the health care team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Rajabiun
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA, USA.
| | - Janet Myers
- Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Janet Goldberg
- Institute for Advanced Medicine, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY, USA
| | - Karen Fortu
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology Data Analytics Center, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marena Sullivan
- Center for Innovation in Social Work & Health, School of Social Work, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vladimir Berthaud
- Division of Infectious Disease/Meharry Community, Wellness Center1 Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | | | - Howard J Cabral
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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