1
|
Harsono D, Deng Y, Chung S, Barakat LA, Friedland G, Villanueva M, Yager JE, Justen M, Edelman EJ. Prevalence and Correlates of Physical Inactivity Among Individuals with HIV During the First COVID-19 Wave: A Cross-sectional Survey. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1531-1545. [PMID: 37824037 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04170-5] [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: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Physical activity is associated with improved health outcomes among people with HIV (PWH). In the recent pandemic context, policies designed to mitigate COVID-19 transmission may result in an increase in sedentary lifestyle and decreased physical activity. In this study, we aimed to characterize self-reported physical activity and factors associated with physical inactivity during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic among a sample of PWH engaged in care. We also described whether psychological coping strategies measured by the Brief COPE differed based on physical activity levels. Among 260 surveyed PWH in two HIV clinics in the US Northeast, 28.5% (n = 74) met the criteria for being physically active according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s physical activity guidelines. Receiving care in New Haven, CT, presence of a detectable HIV viral load, every day tobacco use, and unhealthy alcohol use were associated with physical inactivity. Problem-focused coping, emotion-focused coping, and avoidance-focused coping strategies were found to be protective against physical inactivity. In adjusted analysis, only problem-focused coping continued to be significantly associated with lower odds of reporting physical inactivity. Efforts are urgently needed to promote physical activity among PWH, including among those without problem-focused coping strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dini Harsono
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, 135 College St, Suite 200, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.
| | - Yanhong Deng
- Yale Center for Analytical Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sangyun Chung
- Yale Center for Analytical Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lydia A Barakat
- AIDS Care Program, Section of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Gerald Friedland
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, 135 College St, Suite 200, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
- AIDS Care Program, Section of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Merceditas Villanueva
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, 135 College St, Suite 200, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
- AIDS Care Program, Section of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jessica E Yager
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, 135 College St, Suite 200, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | | | - E Jennifer Edelman
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, 135 College St, Suite 200, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cuadros DF, Huang Q, Mathenjwa T, Gareta D, Devi C, Musuka G. Unlocking the potential of telehealth in Africa for HIV: opportunities, challenges, and pathways to equitable healthcare delivery. Front Digit Health 2024; 6:1278223. [PMID: 38500968 PMCID: PMC10944905 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2024.1278223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Diego F. Cuadros
- Digital Epidemiology Laboratory, Digital Futures, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Qian Huang
- Center for Rural Health Research, College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Thulile Mathenjwa
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Dickman Gareta
- Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Chayanika Devi
- Digital Epidemiology Laboratory, Digital Futures, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Godfrey Musuka
- International Initiative for Impact Evaluation, Harare, Zimbabwe
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Koay WLA, Aware Y, Andine T, Cruz Figueroa GM, Selekman RE, Bryant Y, Rakhmanina NY. Patient Perspectives on Telehealth for HIV and Mental Health Care at a Pediatric and Adolescent HIV Clinic in Washington, DC. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:993-1001. [PMID: 37843684 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04209-7] [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: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Despite the scale-up of telehealth for children and youth living with HIV during the COVID-19 pandemic, their experience and interest in continued telehealth use in the future is unknown. We conducted a quality improvement project to identify areas for improvement of telehealth delivery to children and youth living with HIV and evaluate youth's experiences when using telehealth for mental health services. Children and youth living with HIV (up to 24 years) seen at a specialty HIV program during 2020-2021 were surveyed regarding technology access, telehealth knowledge, barriers to telehealth use and interest in future telehealth use for HIV care. Youth (12-<24 years) who used telehealth for mental health services were surveyed regarding their experiences. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Of the 170 patients in care, we surveyed 103 children and youth living with HIV (median age 17.6 years, 88.3% Black, 52.4% female, 77.7% perinatally infected), of whom 69.9% had prior telehealth use for their clinical visit. Most patients had access to a device with internet (99%) and were interested in future telehealth use for HIV care (87.4%). Reasons for not wanting to use telehealth included privacy concerns, distrust, discomfort with telehealth, preferring in-person visits, technology access issues and needing translation services. Most youth (81%) surveyed regarding telehealth for mental health services were satisfied and very likely to recommend it to others. Despite some reported barriers to telehealth, there is a high desirability for continued telehealth use among children and youth receiving HIV care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li Adeline Koay
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA.
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Yashvi Aware
- Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Tsion Andine
- College of Medicine, Howard University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Rachel E Selekman
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- Division of Urology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Natella Y Rakhmanina
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatrics AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Barth SK, Saulters KJ, Balba GP, Monroe AK, Horberg MA, Kumar PN, Greenberg AE, Castel AD. Mixed Methods Analysis of Telehealth Experience, Satisfaction, and Quality of Care During the COVID Pandemic Among Persons with HIV in Washington, DC. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:912-923. [PMID: 37872460 PMCID: PMC10923106 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04198-7] [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: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to describe telehealth experiences and quality of HIV care provided to an urban population of people with HIV (PWH) in Washington, DC. We used self-reported survey data from a cohort of PWH in the DC Cohort longitudinal study linked to medical records (October 26, 2020-December 31, 2021). Analyses followed a mixed-methods approach, including prevalence estimates and multivariable logistic regression of telehealth use by demographic and HIV characteristics. We measured primary motivation, modes of engagement, and telehealth satisfaction. Qualitative responses to open-ended questions were coded using collaborative coding. A framework developed by the National Quality Forum (NQF) was applied to the results. Among 978 participants, 69% reported using telehealth for HIV care during the pandemic. High school graduates were less likely to use telehealth compared to those with college education (aOR 0.69, 95% CI 0.48, 0.98). PWH with > 1 co-morbid condition were more likely to use telehealth compared to those without (aOR 1.42, 95% CI 1.02, 1.95). The majority reported satisfaction with telehealth (81%). Qualitative analysis of telehealth satisfaction found that most responses were related to access to care and technology, effectiveness, and patient experience. PWH using telehealth during the pandemic were satisfied with their experience though use differed demographically. Telehealth was used effectively to overcome barriers to care engagement, including transportation, costs, and time. As we transition away from the emergency pandemic responses, it will be important to determine how this technology can be used in the future in an equitable manner to further strengthen HIV care engagement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon K Barth
- Department of Epidemiology, The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, 950 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC, 20052, USA.
| | - Kacie J Saulters
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Maryland Capital Region Health, Largo, MD, USA
| | - Gayle P Balba
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Anne K Monroe
- Department of Epidemiology, The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, 950 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - Michael A Horberg
- Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic Permanente Research Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Princy N Kumar
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alan E Greenberg
- Department of Epidemiology, The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, 950 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - Amanda D Castel
- Department of Epidemiology, The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, 950 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Johnsen HM, Øgård-Repål A, Martinez SG, Fangen K, Bårdsen Aas K, Ersfjord EMI. Patients' perceptions of use, needs, and preferences related to a telemedicine solution for HIV care in a Norwegian outpatient clinic: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:209. [PMID: 38360650 PMCID: PMC10870609 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10659-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: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine in outpatient services for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) was scaled up during the COVID-19 pandemic as services transitioned to remote care. Many studies have reported on the challenges and advantages of telemedicine care during the pandemic. However, there is limited research on the provision of telemedicine human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, which entails different telemedicine components and focuses on ways to improve the telemedicine experience for patients. This study aimed to explore PLHIV's perceptions of use, needs, and preferences related to a telemedicine solution for HIV care in an outpatient clinic in Norway. The telemedicine solution included a pre-consultation questionnaire, asynchronous digital messages, and video consultation. METHODS Qualitative interviews were conducted with 12 PLHIV. The interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS We identified four main themes that covered the participants' perceptions, needs, and preferences: (1) perceived usability, (2) maintaining confidentiality, (3) accommodating personal preferences, and (4) perceived usefulness. Some participants had difficulty logging into the telemedicine solution. Other participants suggested additional functionalities, such as picture sharing and access to test result. Telemedicine care enabled the avoidance of stigmatising clinic experiences, although a few participants reported concerns about confidentiality and data security. Accommodating personal preferences and needs in terms of the type of consultations (in-person or video) and frequency of visits was essential to the participants. With telemedicine care, participants felt more in control of their own lives, perceiving that it increased their perceived quality of life and saved them both time and money for travelling to the clinic. CONCLUSIONS Our study identified several specific needs and preferences related to the assessed technical solution and the provision of current and future telemedicine care services. Nevertheless, the telemedicine solution was perceived as a usable, flexible, and person-centred approach to HIV care, contributing to accommodating the participants' personal preferences. However, healthcare professionals need to ensure that individual requirements and preferences are consistent with evidence-based follow-up and supported by person-centred care. Thus, the practice of shared decision making is important in telemedicine care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hege Mari Johnsen
- Department of Health and Nursing Science, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Agder, 4898, Grimstad, PO Box 509, Norway.
| | - Anita Øgård-Repål
- Department of Health and Nursing Science, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Agder, 4898, Grimstad, PO Box 509, Norway
| | - Santiago Gil Martinez
- Department of Health and Nursing Science, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Agder, 4898, Grimstad, PO Box 509, Norway
| | - Kim Fangen
- Sørlandet Hospital, Kristiansand, Norway
| | | | - Ellen Margrete Iveland Ersfjord
- Department of Health and Nursing Science, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Agder, 4898, Grimstad, PO Box 509, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zimmer D, Staab EM, Ridgway JP, Schmitt J, Franco M, Hunter SJ, Motley D, Laiteerapong N. Population-Level Portal-Based Anxiety and Depression Screening Perspectives in HIV Care Clinicians: Qualitative Study Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e48935. [PMID: 38206651 PMCID: PMC10811578 DOI: 10.2196/48935] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression and anxiety are common among people with HIV and are associated with inadequate viral suppression, disease progression, and increased mortality. However, depression and anxiety are underdiagnosed and undertreated in people with HIV owing to inadequate visit time and personnel availability. Conducting population-level depression and anxiety screening via the patient portal is a promising intervention that has not been studied in HIV care settings. OBJECTIVE We aimed to explore facilitators of and barriers to implementing population-level portal-based depression and anxiety screening for people with HIV. METHODS We conducted semistructured hour-long qualitative interviews based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research with clinicians at an HIV clinic. RESULTS A total of 10 clinicians participated in interviews. In total, 10 facilitators and 7 barriers were identified across 5 Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research domains. Facilitators included advantages of systematic screening outside clinic visits; the expectation that assessment frequency could be tailored to patient needs; evidence from the literature and previous experience in other settings; respect for patient privacy; empowering patients and facilitating communication about mental health; compatibility with clinic culture, workflows, and systems; staff beliefs about the importance of mental health screening and benefits for HIV care; engaging all clinic staff and leveraging their strengths; and clear planning and communication with staff. Barriers included difficulty in ensuring prompt response to suicidal ideation; patient access, experience, and comfort using the portal; limited availability of mental health services; variations in how providers use the electronic health record and communicate with patients; limited capacity to address mental health concerns during HIV visits; staff knowledge and self-efficacy regarding the management of mental health conditions; and the impersonal approach to a sensitive topic. CONCLUSIONS We proposed 13 strategies for implementing population-level portal-based screening for people with HIV. Before implementation, clinics can conduct local assessments of clinicians and clinic staff; engage clinicians and clinic staff with various roles and expertise to support the implementation; highlight advantages, relevance, and evidence for population-level portal-based mental health screening; make screening frequency adaptable based on patient history and symptoms; use user-centered design methods to refine results that are displayed and communicated in the electronic health record; make screening tools available for patients to use on demand in the portal; and create protocols for positive depression and anxiety screeners, including those indicating imminent risk. During implementation, clinics should communicate with clinicians and clinic staff and provide training on protocols; provide technical support and demonstrations for patients on how to use the portal; use multiple screening methods for broad reach; use patient-centered communication in portal messages; provide clinical decision support tools, training, and mentorship to help clinicians manage mental health concerns; and implement integrated behavioral health and increase mental health referral partnerships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Zimmer
- Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Erin M Staab
- Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Jessica P Ridgway
- Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Jessica Schmitt
- Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Melissa Franco
- Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Scott J Hunter
- Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Western Institutional Review Board- Copernicus Group, Princeton, NJ, United States
| | - Darnell Motley
- Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Neda Laiteerapong
- Section of General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ratcliffe J, Paer J, Quigee D, Carnevale C, Richards P, Lasota E, Dandan N, Scherer M, Gordon P, Cohall A, Sobieszczyk M, Zucker J. Examining Patient Preferences for Express, Telemedicine, and Standard Visits in a Sexual Health Clinic in New York City. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:28-32. [PMID: 37921848 PMCID: PMC10842572 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001895] [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: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT This study, completed at an sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinic in 2019 to 2020, evaluated patient preferences for telemedicine, express, and standard visits. Active PrEP users preferred telemedicine and express visits, patients with prior STIs preferred express visits, and cisgender women preferred standard visits. Configuring STI clinic visit types requires shared decision making and individualization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Paul Richards
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine
| | - Elijah Lasota
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine
| | | | | | - Peter Gordon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine
| | | | | | - Jason Zucker
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hasselfeld BW, Links AR, Claus LE, Canino R, Sisson SD, Hughes HK. Provider Perspectives Regarding Ambulatory Telemedicine at a Large Academic Health System During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Telemed J E Health 2023; 29:1696-1704. [PMID: 36940314 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2022.0483] [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: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To understand provider preferences regarding telemedicine across clinical departments and provider demographic groups. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was distributed to providers at Johns Hopkins Medicine who had completed at least one outpatient telemedicine encounter. The survey included questions about clinical appropriateness and preferred use of telemedicine. Demographic data were obtained from institutional records. Descriptive statistics provided a profile of provider responses. Wilcoxon rank sum tests evaluated departmental and demographic differences. Results: A total of 1,342 of 3,576 providers responded (37.5%). Providers indicated that telemedicine was clinically appropriate for new patients a median of 31.5% of the time (Range: 20% in pediatrics, 80% in psychiatry/behavioral sciences). For existing patients, providers indicated that telemedicine was clinically appropriate a median of 70% of the time (Range: 50% in physical medicine, 90% in psychiatry/behavioral sciences). Providers desired a median of 30% of their schedule template be dedicated to telemedicine (Range: 20% in family medicine, 70% in psychiatry/behavioral sciences). Providers who were female, had fewer than 15 years in practice, or were psychiatrists/psychologists tended to find telemedicine more clinically appropriate (p < 0.05). Conclusions: A majority of providers across clinical departments felt that high-quality care could be delivered through telemedicine, although the amount of care varied widely based on department and patient type. Preferences for future telemedicine similarly showed wide variety across and within departments. These findings indicate that in this early adoption phase of widespread telemedicine integration, there is lack of consensus among providers about the amount of telemedicine appropriate for everyday practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian W Hasselfeld
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Office of Telemedicine, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Office of Johns Hopkins Physicians, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Anne R Links
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lauren E Claus
- Department of Otolaryngology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rebecca Canino
- Office of Telemedicine, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Stephen D Sisson
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Office of Johns Hopkins Physicians, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Helen K Hughes
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Office of Telemedicine, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yelverton V, Gass SJ, Amoatika D, Cooke C, Ostermann J, Natafgi N, Hair NL, Olatosi B, Owens OL, Qiao S, Li X, Derrick C, Weissman S, Albrecht H. The Future of Telehealth in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Care: A Qualitative Study of Patient and Provider Perspectives in South Carolina. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:459-468. [PMID: 37862076 PMCID: PMC10616939 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0176] [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: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
To ensure care continuity during the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth has been widely implemented in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care. However, participation in and benefits from telehealth were unequal. This study aims to assess the willingness of people living with HIV (PWH) and HIV care providers to use telehealth and perceptions of the future role of telehealth. In-depth interviews with 18 PWH and 10 HIV care providers from South Carolina assessed their willingness to use telehealth, their perspectives on the future of telehealth in HIV care, and recommendations to improve telehealth. Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Most PWH were female (61%), Black/African American (67%), and non-Hispanic (78%). Most PWH (61%) and all providers had used telehealth for HIV care. Most PWH and all providers reported being willing to use or (re-)consider telehealth HIV care services in the future. Providers suggested that telehealth is most suitable for routine HIV care encounters and for established, clinically stable, generally healthy PWH. Attitudes toward telehealth were heterogeneous, with most interviewees valuing telehealth similarly or superior to in-person care, yet >20% perceiving it less valuable. Recommendations to improve telehealth included multilevel strategies to address challenges across four domains: technology, the virtual nature of telehealth, administrative processes, and the sociodemographic profile of PWH. Telehealth in HIV care is here to stay; however, it may not yet be suitable for all PWH and all care encounters. Decision processes related to telehealth versus in-person care need to involve providers and PWH. Existing telehealth options require multilevel adjustments addressing persistent challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Yelverton
- Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Salome-Joelle Gass
- Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Daniel Amoatika
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Christopher Cooke
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Jan Ostermann
- Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality (CHQ), Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nabil Natafgi
- Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Nicole L. Hair
- Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Bankole Olatosi
- Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality (CHQ), Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Otis L. Owens
- College of Social Work, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Shan Qiao
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality (CHQ), Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Xiaoming Li
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality (CHQ), Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Caroline Derrick
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Prisma Health Midlands, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Sharon Weissman
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality (CHQ), Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Prisma Health Midlands, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Helmut Albrecht
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
- Prisma Health Midlands, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Awaidy SA, Ghazy RM, Mahomed O. Progress of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries Towards Achieving the 95-95-95 UNAIDS Targets: A Review. J Epidemiol Glob Health 2023; 13:397-406. [PMID: 37079171 PMCID: PMC10116479 DOI: 10.1007/s44197-023-00097-1] [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: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2014, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and partners launched the 90-90-90 targets. These were further updated to correspond to 95-95-95 by the year 2025. We present an overview of the progress made by Gulf Cooperated Council (GCC) countries towards meeting the global targets. METHODS We extracted data from Global AIDS Monitoring (GAM), UNAIDS AIDS Info, HIV case reporting database, and the WHO global policy uptake for six countries: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab of Emirates (UAE) to assess the HIV/AIDS burden in the six GCC countries, and the progress towards achieving the 95-95-95 goal. RESULTS By the end of 2021, an estimated 42,015 people living with HIV (PLHIV) were residing in the GCC countries with prevalence levels below 0.01%. Data from four GCC countries, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and UAE, indicated that by 2021, 94%, 80%, 66%, and 85% of HIV-positive population knew their status, respectively. 68%, 93% (2020 data), 65%, 58% and 85% of PLHIV in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and UAE who knew their status were on anti-retroviral therapy (ART), respectively, and 55%, 92%, 58% and 90% (2020 data) among those who were on ART had viral suppression in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and KSA, respectively. CONCLUSION The GCC countries have made great strides toward fulfilling the 95-95-95 targets, but the interim 2025 overall UNAIDS targets remain unmet. The GCC countries must strive diligently to accomplish the targets by emphasising early identification of the cases by enhanced screening and testing, as well as prompt commencement of ART therapy with viral load suppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ramy Mohamed Ghazy
- Tropical Health Department, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ozayr Mahomed
- Department of Public Health Medicine, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, Howard College Campus, South Africa.
- Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhao A, Wegener M, Brooks R, Mininberg L, Helou E, Maughan A, Villanueva M. Characterizing Persons With HIV/HCV Coinfection Who Remain Untreated for Hepatitis C at Four HIV Clinics in Connecticut (CT): Role of Multiple Overlapping Barriers at the Individual and Clinic System Levels. Health Promot Pract 2023; 24:1029-1038. [PMID: 37439687 DOI: 10.1177/15248399231169793] [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: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Introduction. Direct-acting antiviral medications have made hepatitis C virus (HCV) cure possible for >95% of persons with chronic HCV infection, including those coinfected with HIV. Achieving strategic HCV elimination targets requires an understanding of system, provider, and patient-level barriers to treatment. We explored such barriers among persons with HIV/HCV coinfection who remained untreated for HCV. Methods. Among four primary care HIV clinics in CT with high rates of HCV cure, 25 patients with HIV/HCV coinfection were eligible (no HCV treatment as of March 31, 2021). We conducted retrospective chart reviews of demographics, clinical practice patterns, patient-specific issues such as housing, transportation, food security, and presence of mental health and substance use problems. Results. Among untreated patients, 13 (51%) were female; 17 (68%) were Black; median age was 62 years old. The majority (84%) had injecting drug use (IDU) as HIV transmission risk factor; 14 (56%) were prescribed medication-assisted treatment. Median time since HIV and HCV diagnosis was 25 and 19 years, respectively. Clinic-level barriers were noted in 19 (76%) and included lack of evaluation, treatment not recommended or implemented. Concomitant structural barriers included unstable housing for 11 (44%) and lack of transportation for eight (32%). Most patients had history of illicit substance use (84%) and mental health issues (68%). Many (76%) had multiple potential barriers. Conclusions. Multiple overlapping barriers spanning clinic and patient level domains including social determinants of health were the norm in persons with long-standing HIV/HCV coinfection who have not received HCV treatment. Interventions will require innovative, multi-disciplinary and personalized approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Elie Helou
- StayWell Health Care, Waterbury, CT, USA
| | - Ashly Maughan
- Cornell Scott-Hill Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Masters MC, Rivera J, Calamari M, Wright K, Janulis P, Rusie L, Bannon J, Milne P, Galvin SR, Molina EG, Hirschhorn LR, Palella FJ, Kumar R, Brown C, Hawkins C. Telemedicine and HIV Care Quality Measures During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 94:46-52. [PMID: 37368925 PMCID: PMC10526734 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003238] [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: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine was adopted to ensure continuity of HIV care. We examined how introducing televisits affected technical quality of care for people with HIV (PWH) during this time. METHODS PWH receiving HIV care at Howard Brown Health Centers and Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois were included. HIV care quality indicators were calculated using data extracted from electronic medical records during 4 timepoints every 6 months from March, March 1, 2020 to September 1, 2021. Generalized linear mixed models estimated differences in indicators across timepoints within each site while controlling for multiple observations of individuals. Generalized linear mixed models were also used to compare differences in outcomes among PWH who attended all versus a combination of in-person and televisits versus no televisits across the study time periods. RESULTS 6447 PWH were included in the analysis. Compared with prepandemic levels, there were significant declines in care utilization and processes of care measures. Measures of HIV virologic suppression, blood pressure control, and HbA1C <7% (in both people with and without diabetes) were stable with no significant differences noted across the study timepoints. Similar trends were observed across all age, race, and sex subgroups. In multivariable models, televisits were not associated with decreased HIV viral suppression. CONCLUSIONS During the COVID-19 pandemic and rapid implementation of televisits, indicators of care utilization and processes of care decreased compared with prepandemic levels. Among PWH who remained in care, televisits were not associated with worse virologic, blood pressure, and glycemic control in PWH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mia Calamari
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Patrick Janulis
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Jacqueline Bannon
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Patrick Milne
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Shannon R. Galvin
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Frank J. Palella
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Claudia Hawkins
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Nicolau V, Brandão D, Rua T, Escoval A. Organisation and integrated healthcare approaches for people living with HIV, multimorbidity, or both: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1579. [PMID: 37596539 PMCID: PMC10439547 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16485-y] [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: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Universal recommendation for antiretroviral drugs and their effectiveness has put forward the challenge of assuring a chronic and continued care approach to PLHIV (People Living with HIV), pressured by aging and multimorbidity. Integrated approaches are emerging which are more responsive to that reality. Studying those approaches, and their relation to the what of delivery arrangements and the how of implementation processes, may support future strategies to attain more effective organizational responses. METHODS We reviewed empirical studies on either HIV, multimorbidity, or both. The studies were published between 2011 and 2020, describing integrated approaches, their design, implementation, and evaluation strategy. Quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods were included. Electronic databases reviewed cover PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science. A narrative analysis was conducted on each study, and data extraction was accomplished according to the Effective Practice and Organisation of Care taxonomy of health systems interventions. RESULTS A total of 30 studies, reporting 22 different interventions, were analysed. In general, interventions were grounded and guided by models and frameworks, and focused on specific subpopulations, or priority groups at increased risk of poorer outcomes. Interventions mixed multiple integrated components. Delivery arrangements targeted more frequently clinical integration (n = 13), and care in proximity, community or online-telephone based (n = 15). Interventions reported investments in the role of users, through self-management support (n = 16), and in coordination, through multidisciplinary teams (n = 9) and continuity of care (n = 8). Implementation strategies targeted educational and training activities (n = 12), and less often, mechanisms of iterative improvement (n = 3). At the level of organizational design and governance, interventions mobilised users and communities through representation, at boards and committees, and through consultancy, along different phases of the design process (n = 11). CONCLUSION The data advance important lessons and considerations to take steps forward from disease-focused care to integrated care at two critical levels: design and implementation. Multidisciplinary work, continuity of care, and meaningful engagement of users seem crucial to attain care that is comprehensive and more proximal, within or cross organizations, or sectors. Promising practices are advanced at the level of design, implementation, and evaluation, that set integration as a continued process of improvement and value professionals and users' knowledge as assets along those phases. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO number CRD42020194117.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Nicolau
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Center, Comprehensive Health Research Center, CHRC, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Daniela Brandão
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Center, Comprehensive Health Research Center, CHRC, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Ana Escoval
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Center, Comprehensive Health Research Center, CHRC, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
McKay E, Ojukwu E, Hirani S, Sotindjo T, Okedo-Alex I, Magagula P. How the COVID-19 Pandemic Influenced HIV Care: Are We Prepared Enough for Future Pandemics? An Assessment of Factors Influencing Access, Utilization, Affordability, and Motivation to Engage with HIV Services amongst African, Caribbean, and Black Women. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6051. [PMID: 37297655 PMCID: PMC10252676 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20116051] [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: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in disruption in healthcare delivery for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). African, Caribbean, and Black women living with HIV (ACB WLWH) in British Columbia (BC) faced barriers to engage with HIV care services prior to the COVID-19 pandemic that were intensified by the transition to virtual care during the pandemic. This paper aims to assess which factors influenced ACB WLWH's access to, utilization and affordability of, and motivation to engage with HIV care services. This study utilized a qualitative descriptive approach using in-depth interviews. Eighteen participants were recruited from relevant women's health, HIV, and ACB organizations in BC. Participants felt dismissed by healthcare providers delivering services only in virtual formats and suggested that services be performed in a hybrid model to increase access and utilization. Mental health supports, such as support groups, dissolved during the pandemic and overall utilization decreased for many participants. The affordability of services pertained primarily to expenses not covered by the provincial healthcare plan. Resources should be directed to covering supplements, healthy food, and extended health services. The primary factor decreasing motivation to engage with HIV services was fear, which emerged due to the unknown impact of the COVID-19 virus on immunocompromised participants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily McKay
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada; (E.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Emmanuela Ojukwu
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada; (E.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Saima Hirani
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada; (E.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Tatiana Sotindjo
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada;
- B.C. Women’s Hospital & Health Centre, Vancouver, BC V6H 2N9, Canada
| | - Ijeoma Okedo-Alex
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada;
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Shacham E, Scroggins SE, Ellis M. Implementing Geospatial Science and Technology to Get to Zero New HIV Infections. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2023; 20:139-147. [PMID: 37145264 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-023-00658-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Tremendous advancements have been made in HIV treatment and prevention during the last 40 years that zero new HIV cases has become an attainable goal declared by international agencies. However, new cases of HIV infection persist. RECENT FINDINGS The emerging field of geospatial science is positioned to play key role in the reduction of continued HIV incidence through technology-driven interventions and innovative research that gives insights into at-risk populations. As these methods become more utilized, findings consistently show the important role of location and environment plays in HIV incidence and treatment adherence. This includes distance to HIV provider, locations of where HIV transmissions occurs compared to where people with HIV reside, and how geospatial technology has been leveraged to identify unique insights among varying groups of those at increased risk for HIV, among others. Given these insights, leveraging geospatial technology would play a prominent role in achieving zero new cases of HIV infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enbal Shacham
- College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, 3545 Lafayette Avenue, St. Louis, MO, 63104, USA.
- Taylor Geospatial Institute, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | | | - Matthew Ellis
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Esmaeili ED, Azizi H, Dastgiri S, Kalankesh LR. Does telehealth affect the adherence to ART among patients with HIV? A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:169. [PMID: 36932376 PMCID: PMC10022569 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08119-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have shown different effects of telehealth interventions on adherence to Antiretroviral therapy (ART) among people living with HIV. This study conducted a meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) to estimate the pooled effect of telehealth interventions on the treatment adherence of HIV patients. METHODS The researchers conducted literature searches in Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. In addition, open grey was systematically searched until January 2022 for RCTs around the effects of telehealth on adherence to treatment ART among patients with HIV. Each study's methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. Pooled Standard Mean Differences (SMD) and Risk Ratio (RR) with 95% CI were calculated using the random effects model. RESULTS In total, 12 eligible articles were considered in the present systematic review. A random-effects meta-analysis using 5 RCTs yielded the pooled RR estimate of 1.18 (95% CI: 1.03 to 1.35, p < 0.05); I2 = 0, suggesting the adherence to treatment among patients with HIV who received telehealth intervention was significantly 18% upper than control groups. Moreover, the random effects analysis of SMD showed a positive effect for telehealth with SMR = 0.36 (95% CI: 0.22 to 0.49, p < 0.05); I2 = 91.9%, indicating that telehealth intervention increased ART adherence to the treatment group compared to the control group. CONCLUSION Telehealth intervention as a new modality of health care service delivery could be a valuable strategy to improve ART adherence among patients with HIV. It can strengthen the capacity of HIV care services. On a large scale, telehealth can be utilized as a supplementary component for ART delivery and retention toward successful adherence to the therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elham Davtalab Esmaeili
- grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Road Traffic Injury Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hosein Azizi
- grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913ٌWomen’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Dastgiri
- grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Leila R. Kalankesh
- grid.412888.f0000 0001 2174 8913Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Marshall SA, Tao J, Horton HK, Montgomery MC, Baloh J, Gu M, Mabin C, Cima M, Nunn AS, Chan PA, Zaller ND. Barriers and facilitators to HIV care engagement: Recommendations from people with HIV in rural Arkansas. J Rural Health 2023; 39:459-468. [PMID: 36203209 PMCID: PMC10038810 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12717] [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] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Little is known about factors affecting HIV care engagement and retention among rural people with HIV (PWH) in the South. About half of PWH in Arkansas reside in rural areas. The purpose of this study was to explore factors affecting engagement and retention in HIV care among PWH in rural areas of Arkansas. METHODS We conducted an exploratory qualitative study in 2020 and completed individual interviews (N = 11) with PWH in rural counties in Arkansas. FINDINGS Content analysis revealed the following themes: (1) Barriers to HIV care included long distances to the nearest HIV clinic and transportation issues along with anticipating and/or experiencing HIV-related stigma; (2) facilitators of HIV care included having a helpful HIV care provider and Ryan White case manager and a social support network that aided them in prioritizing their own health; (3) participants had the most favorable reactions to Ryan White case management, peer navigators, and telemedicine for HIV treatment/care; and (4) participants demonstrated resilience overcoming various obstacles as they worked toward being healthy mentally and physically while living with HIV. CONCLUSION Interventions need to address multilevel factors, including hiring PWH as peer navigators and/or caseworkers and offering HIV care via telemedicine, to improve HIV care engagement and retention among rural populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Alexandra Marshall
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Jun Tao
- Department of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Heather K. Horton
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Madeline C. Montgomery
- Department of Behavioral & Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Jure Baloh
- Department of Health Policy & Management, Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Mofan Gu
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | | | - Mike Cima
- Arkansas Department of Health, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Amy S. Nunn
- Department of Behavioral & Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Philip A. Chan
- Department of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Nickolas D. Zaller
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Volkow P, Lárraga-Mancilla V, Mendoza MJ, Cornejo-Juárez P, Islas-Muñoz B, Pérez-Jiménez C, Alatorre-Fernández P, Martin-Onraet A. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic in the care of people living with HIV and cancer at an oncologic center in Mexico. Int J STD AIDS 2023; 34:159-167. [PMID: 36527188 PMCID: PMC9760499 DOI: 10.1177/09564624221142364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People living with HIV(PLWH) and cancer are among the most vulnerable patients and require constant access to medical services. We compared the characteristics of PLWH and cancer in Mexico, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Patients admitted 1 year before (pre-pandemic) and 1 year after the start of the pandemic (pandemic) were included. Clinical characteristics, HIV-related variables, and 90-day mortality were compared. Data are described a proportions (N,%) and central tendency measures. A multiple regression model for variables associated with 90-day mortality was performed. RESULTS Seventy-nine patients were seen in the pre-pandemic period; 92 during the pandemic. Main diagnoses were Kaposi Sarcoma and lymphoma. CD4+ cell count at diagnosis was lower during the pandemic: 81 cells/mm3 vs. 128 cells/mm3, p = .035. CD4+<100 cells/mm3 at first consultation increased from 41% to 58% during the pandemic (p = .041). Only BMI <20 kg/m2 was associated to death (aOR 8.27, 95%CI 1.74-39.25) (p = .008). The pandemic period was not associated with a higher 90-day mortality. CONCLUSIONS PLWH and cancer presented to care with advanced disease overall. This was more pronounced during the pandemic period. Mortality was associated with AIDS-related variables regardless of study period. This underscores the need for strategies to maintain in-person access to health-care services for PLWH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Alexandra Martin-Onraet
- Alexandra Martin-Onraet, Infectious
Diseases Department, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCan), Av. San
Fernando No. 22, Col. Belisario Domínguez, Sección XVI, Tlalpan, Ciudad de
México 14080, México.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Fuster-RuizdeApodaca MJ, Wohl DA, Cascio M, Guaraldi G, Rockstroh J, Hodson M, Richman B, Brown G, Anderson J, Lazarus JV. Why we need to re-define long-term success for people living with HIV. HIV Med 2023; 24 Suppl 2:3-7. [PMID: 36920411 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Over the past few decades, the life expectancy of people living with HIV has markedly improved due to the advances in HIV diagnosis, linkage to care, and treatment. However, with these advances, a new set of challenges has emerged that must be addressed to ensure the long-term well-being of people living with HIV. In this article, as part of a wider journal supplement, we explore the unmet needs and challenges across the HIV continuum of care and re-define what long-term success looks like to support the healthy ageing of all people affected by HIV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria J Fuster-RuizdeApodaca
- SEISIDA, Spanish AIDS Interdisciplinary Society, Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - David A Wohl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Mario Cascio
- European AIDS Treatment Group (EATG), Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Jürgen Rockstroh
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | | | - Gina Brown
- Southern AIDS Coalition, Chalmette, Louisiana, USA
| | - Jane Anderson
- Centre for the Study of Sexual Health and HIV, Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute of Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (CUNY SPH), New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
El-Nahal WG, Chander G, Jones JL, Fojo AT, Keruly JC, Manabe YC, Moore RD, Gebo KA, Lesko CR. Telemedicine Use Among People With HIV in 2021: The Hybrid-Care Environment. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 92:223-230. [PMID: 36730830 PMCID: PMC9969325 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003124] [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: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine use for the care of people with HIV (PWH) significantly expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic. During 2021, vaccine uptake increased and patients were encouraged to resume in-person care, resulting in a mixture of in-person and telemedicine visits. We studied how different patient populations used telemedicine in this hybrid-care environment. METHODS Using observational data from patients enrolled in the Johns Hopkins HIV Clinical Cohort, we analyzed all in-person and telemedicine HIV primary care visits completed in an HIV clinic from January 1st, 2021, to December 31st, 2021. We used log-binomial regression to investigate the association between patient characteristics and the probability of completing a telemedicine versus in-person visit and the probability of completing a video versus telephone visit. RESULTS A total of 5518 visits were completed by 1884 patients; 4282 (77.6%) visits were in-person, 800 (14.5%) by phone, and 436 (7.9%) by video. The relative risk (RR) of completing telemedicine vs. in-person visits was 0.65 (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.47, 0.91) for patients age 65 years or older vs. age 20-39 years; 0.84 (95% CI: 0.72, 0.98) for male patients vs. female patients; 0.81 (95% CI: 0.66, 0.99) for Black vs. White patients; 0.62 (95% CI: 0.49, 0.79) for patients in the highest vs. lowest quartile of Area Deprivation Index; and 1.52 (95% CI: 1.26, 1.84) for patients >15 miles vs. <5 miles from clinic. CONCLUSIONS In the second year of the pandemic, overall in-person care was used more than telemedicine and significant differences persist across subgroups in telemedicine uptake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Walid G. El-Nahal
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Geetanjali Chander
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Joyce L. Jones
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anthony T. Fojo
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jeanne C. Keruly
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yukari C. Manabe
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Richard D. Moore
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kelly A. Gebo
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Catherine R. Lesko
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Houser SH, Flite CA, Foster SL. Privacy and Security Risk Factors Related to Telehealth Services - A Systematic Review. PERSPECTIVES IN HEALTH INFORMATION MANAGEMENT 2023; 20:1f. [PMID: 37215337 PMCID: PMC9860467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The objective of the study is to identify challenges and associated factors for privacy and security related to telehealth visits during the COVID-19 pandemic. The systematic search strategy used the databases of PubMed, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, Embase, CINAHL, and COCHRANE, with the search terms of telehealth/telemedicine, privacy, security, and confidentiality. Reviews included peer-reviewed empirical studies conducted from January 2020 to February 2022. Studies conducted outside of the US, non-empirical, and non-telehealth related were excluded. Eighteen studies were included in the final analysis. Three risk factors associated with privacy and security in telehealth practice included: environmental factors (lack of private space for vulnerable populations, difficulty sharing sensitive health information remotely), technology factors (data security issues, limited access to the internet, and technology), and operational factors (reimbursement, payer denials, technology accessibility, training, and education). Findings from this study can assist governments, policymakers, and healthcare organizations in developing best practices in telehealth privacy and security strategies.
Collapse
|
22
|
Scheffer M, Cassenote A, de Britto E Alves MTSS, Russo G. The multiple uses of telemedicine during the pandemic: the evidence from a cross-sectional survey of medical doctors in Brazil. Global Health 2022; 18:81. [PMID: 36123696 PMCID: PMC9483882 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-022-00875-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of telemedicine, or the provision of healthcare and communication services through distance-based technologies, has increased substantially since the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. However, it is still unclear what are the innovative features of the widespread use of such modality, its forms of employment and the context in which it is used across pluralist health systems, particularly in low- and middle-income settings. We have sought to provide empirical evidence on the above issues by analysing the responses of medical doctors in a representative cross-sectional survey in two states in Brazil: São Paulo and Maranhão. METHODS We analysed the responses of 1,183 physicians to a survey on the impact of COVID-19 on their livelihood and working practice. Two independent samples per state were calculated based on a total of 152,511 active medical registries in São Paulo and Maranhão. Proportional stratified sampling was performed and the distributions for gender, age, state and location of address (capital or countryside) were preserved. The survey contained questions on the frequency of physicians' employment of telemedicine services; the specific activities where these were employed, and; the forms in which the pandemic had influenced the adoption or consolidation of this technology. We performed descriptive and univariate analysis based on the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test for the qualitative data, and the Mann-Whitney test in the quantitative cases. Data were shown as absolute frequency and proportion with a 95% confidence interval. RESULTS In our sample of physicians, telemedicine was employed as a form of clinical collaboration by most doctors (76.0%, 95 CI 73.6-78.5), but only less than a third of them (30.6%, 95 CI 28.0-33.3) used it as a modality to provide healthcare services. During the pandemic, telemedicine was used predominantly in COVID-19-related areas, particularly for hospital-based in-patient services, and in private clinics and ambulatory settings. Male, younger doctors used it the most. Doctors in São Paulo employed telemedicine more frequently than in Maranhão (p < 0.001), in urban settings more than in rural areas (p < 0.001). Approximately three-quarters of doctors in large hospitals reported using telemedicine services (78.3%, 95 CI 75.9-80.6), followed by doctors working for smaller private clinics (66.4%, 95 CI 63.7-69.1), and by a smaller proportion of primary care doctors (58.4%, 95 CI 55.6-61.2). CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that telemedicine may have helped ensure and expand the range of communication and healthcare services in low- and middle-income settings during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the modality appears to lend itself to be disproportionally used by doctors working in specific, priviledged sections of pluralistic health systems, and presumably by patients seeking care there. Regulation and incentives will be required to support the use of the technology across health systems in low- and middle-income countries in order to increase access to services for less disadvantaged populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mário Scheffer
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of São, Paulo. Avenida Dr. Arnaldo, 455, 2º andar, sala 2166, São Paulo (, SP, CEP: 01246-903, Brazil
| | - Alex Cassenote
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of São, Paulo. Avenida Dr. Arnaldo, 455, 2º andar, sala 2166, São Paulo (, SP, CEP: 01246-903, Brazil
| | | | - Giuliano Russo
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, 58 Turner street, London, E1 2AB, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
HIV Care Meets Telehealth: a Review of Successes, Disparities, and Unresolved Challenges. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2022; 19:446-453. [PMID: 36063284 PMCID: PMC9442586 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-022-00623-z] [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] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review This review summarizes the current state of telehealth utilization in HIV care delivery by highlighting successes, gaps, and unresolved challenges related to access, disparities, care providers in and standardization of policies and protocol. Recent Findings Telehealth adoption in HIV care delivery in the USA has been successful. Despite this success, racial minority groups, older adults, and individuals with low telehealth literacy report low preference, dissatisfaction, and experience poorer health outcomes than other groups. Lack of broadband access, compatible devices, standardization, and government regulations of telehealth in HIV care contribute to poor patient-provider experience and utilization. Summary Telehealth remains a valuable tool in HIV care. However, disparities exist in access and health outcomes. Telehealth literacy, broadband access, protecting patients’ data, policies, and standardized protocols are critical in sustaining telehealth for HIV care. Further research is needed on preferences and how specific telehealth platforms influence HIV treatment outcomes.
Collapse
|