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Walsh JL, Quinn KG, Hirshfield S, John SA, Algiers O, Al-Shalby K, Giuca AM, McCarthy C, Petroll AE. Acceptability, Feasibility, and Preliminary Impact of 4 Remotely-Delivered Interventions for Rural Older Adults Living with HIV. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1401-1414. [PMID: 38170275 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04227-5] [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: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
People living with HIV (PLH) who live in rural areas of the United States (US) face more challenges to obtaining medical care and suffer higher mortality rates compared to non-rural PLH. Compared with younger PLH, older PLH (age 50+) also face additional challenges to maintaining their health and wellbeing. Despite the heightened barriers to receiving care and remaining adherent to treatment among older rural PLH, few interventions to increase viral suppression and improve quality of life exist for this population. We pilot-tested four remotely-delivered interventions-group-based social support, group-based stigma-reduction, individual strengths-based case management, and individual technology detailing-aimed to improve care engagement and quality of life in rural older PLH in the southern US. Participants (N = 61, Mage = 58, 75% male) completed surveys and self-collected blood specimens at baseline and 3 months; in between, they were randomized to 0-4 interventions. We assessed feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary impact on medication adherence, viral suppression, quality of life, depressive symptoms, and hypothesized mediating mechanisms. More than 80% participated in assigned intervention(s), and 84% completed the study. Interventions were highly acceptable to participants, with more than 80% reporting they would recommend interventions to peers. More than 80% found the social support and case management interventions to be relevant and enjoyable. We found promising preliminary impact of interventions on quality of life, medication adherence, depressive symptoms, internalized stigma, and loneliness. Remotely-delivered interventions targeting rural older PLH are feasible to conduct and acceptable to participants. Larger scale study of these interventions is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Walsh
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Katherine G Quinn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- STAR Program, Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Steven A John
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Olivia Algiers
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Kamal Al-Shalby
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Cambridge Health Alliance, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anne-Marie Giuca
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Caitlin McCarthy
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Andrew E Petroll
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
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Gumede SB, Wensing AMJ, Lalla-Edward ST, de Wit JBF, Francois Venter WD, Tempelman HA, Hermans LE. Predictors of Treatment Adherence and Virological Failure Among People Living with HIV Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy in a South African Rural Community: A Sub-study of the ITREMA Randomised Clinical Trial. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3863-3885. [PMID: 37382825 PMCID: PMC10598166 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04103-2] [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: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
A large proportion of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa reside in rural areas. Knowledge of enablers and barriers of adherence to antiretroviral treatment (ART) in these populations is limited. We conducted a cohort study of 501 adult PLHIV on ART at a rural South African treatment facility as a sub-study of a clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03357588). Socio-economic, psychosocial and behavioral characteristics were assessed as covariates of self-reported adherence difficulties, suboptimal pill count adherence and virological failure during 96 weeks of follow-up. Male gender was an independent risk factor for all outcomes. Food insecurity was associated with virological failure in males. Depressive symptoms were independently associated with virological failure in both males and females. Household income and task-oriented coping score were protective against suboptimal pill-count adherence. These results underscore the impact of low household income, food insecurity and depression on outcomes of ART in rural settings and confirm other previously described risk factors. Recognition of these factors and targeted adherence support strategies may improve patient health and treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siphamandla B Gumede
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 32 Princess of Wales Terrace, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa.
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Annemarie M J Wensing
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Ndlovu Research Consortium, Elandsdoorn, South Africa
| | - Samanta T Lalla-Edward
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 32 Princess of Wales Terrace, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - John B F de Wit
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - W D Francois Venter
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 32 Princess of Wales Terrace, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Hugo A Tempelman
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 32 Princess of Wales Terrace, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
- Ndlovu Research Consortium, Elandsdoorn, South Africa
| | - Lucas E Hermans
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 32 Princess of Wales Terrace, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Ndlovu Research Consortium, Elandsdoorn, South Africa
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Petroll AE, Quinn KG, John SA, Nigogosyan Z, Walsh JL. Factors associated with lack of care engagement among older, rural-dwelling adults living with HIV in the United States. J Rural Health 2023; 39:477-487. [PMID: 36482508 PMCID: PMC10038837 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12732] [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] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Most people living with HIV (PLH) in the United States are over age 50 and this sector of PLH continues to grow. Aging with HIV can be challenging due to comorbid medical conditions, mental health disorders, substance use, and lack of social and practical support. Additional challenges are faced by older PLH living in the rural United States, such as longer distances to health care, concerns over privacy and stigma, and social isolation. PLH in rural areas have higher mortality rates than urban PLH. We aimed to understand factors associated with HIV care engagement and quality of life in rural US adults over age 50. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study to evaluate the association between patient-level factors and a combined outcome variable encompassing multiple aspects of care engagement. FINDINGS Either online or on paper, 446 participants completed our survey. One-third of the participants (33%) were from the southern United States; one-third were women; one-third were non-White; and 24% completed the survey on paper. In multiple regression analysis, lower income, residing in the southern United States, lacking internet access at home, not having an HIV specialist provider, higher levels of stress, living alone, and longer distance to an HIV provider were all associated with lower engagement in HIV care. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrated multiple potential options for interventions that could improve care engagement, such as providing and enhancing access to technology for health care engagement and remotely delivering social support and mental health services. Research on such potential interventions is needed for older, rural PLH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew E. Petroll
- Health Intervention Sciences Group/Center for AIDS Intervention Research (CAIR), Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Katherine G. Quinn
- Health Intervention Sciences Group/Center for AIDS Intervention Research (CAIR), Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Steven A. John
- Health Intervention Sciences Group/Center for AIDS Intervention Research (CAIR), Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Zack Nigogosyan
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Walsh
- Health Intervention Sciences Group/Center for AIDS Intervention Research (CAIR), Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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Walsh JL, John SA, Quinn KG, Hirshfield S, O’Neil A, Petroll AE. Factors associated with quality of life, depressive symptoms, and perceived stress among rural older adults living with HIV in the United States. J Rural Health 2023; 39:488-498. [PMID: 36510755 PMCID: PMC10038895 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Rural older people living with HIV (PLH) in the United States are a population of growing size and significance. A better understanding of factors associated with quality of life (QOL), depressive symptoms, and stress in this population-especially modifiable factors-could inform future interventions. METHODS Online or on paper, we surveyed 446 PLH aged 50+ residing in rural counties across the United States (Mage = 56, 67% male, 67% White, and 23% Black). Associations between social support, HIV stigma, satisfaction with medical care, discrimination in health care settings, and structural barriers and health-related QOL, depressive symptoms, and perceived stress were assessed using multiple linear regressions. FINDINGS Controlling for demographics, greater social support was associated with better QOL, fewer depressive symptoms, and less stress. Greater HIV stigma was associated with more depressive symptoms and stress. Satisfaction with care was associated with better QOL and less stress. Discrimination in medical settings was associated with lower QOL and more depressive symptoms and stress. Finally, experiencing more structural barriers was associated with lower QOL and more depressive symptoms and stress. CONCLUSIONS In addition to engagement in care and viral suppression, QOL and mental health are also critical considerations for rural older PLH. Increasing social support, reducing or providing skills to cope with HIV stigma, improving quality of care, reducing discrimination and stigma in medical settings, and reducing or mitigating the impact of structural barriers present potential targets for interventions aiming to improve the well-being of older rural PLH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Walsh
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, The Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Steven A. John
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, The Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Katherine G. Quinn
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, The Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- STAR Program, Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Andrew O’Neil
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, The Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Andrew E. Petroll
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, The Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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Jackson L, Lee Y, Batey DS. Structural violence within communities and its impact on the well-being of people with HIV (PWH). AIDS Care 2023; 35:265-270. [PMID: 35727148 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2088679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Structural violence (SV) is the concept that there are often invisible and intangible structures in place, whether political, economic, legal, cultural, religious, or social, that can inhibit individuals from reaching their full potential. There is a need to better understand the influence of SV on the well-being of people with HIV (PWH) in the Deep South. To address this gap in the literature, we interpreted data using a Structural Violence framework. In this community-based participatory research, in-depth interviews (n = 40) were conducted with PWH who previously established HIV medical care. In our study, we found that SV can have a widespread impact in communities, negatively impacting access to key tangible and emotional resources. SV themes included community crime and instability, financial insecurity, and disparate access to numerous resources known to influence health. Structures exacerbating unequal access to resources appear engrained within communities and often went unrecognized by participants as disadvantageous to achieving optimal HIV health. Greater effort is necessary to elucidate the influence and role of violent structures on access to key resources for and by PWH. A clearer understanding of SV's influence on HIV health can inform changes addressing these structural barriers to HIV health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yookyong Lee
- Department of Social Work, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, USA
| | - D Scott Batey
- Department of Social Work, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, USA
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Sharpe JD, Sanchez TH, Siegler AJ, Guest JL, Sullivan PS. Association between the geographic accessibility of PrEP and PrEP use among MSM in nonurban areas. J Rural Health 2022; 38:948-959. [PMID: 34997634 PMCID: PMC9259757 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12645] [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] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The US HIV epidemic has become a public health issue that increasingly affects men who have sex with men (MSM), including those residing in nonurban areas. Increasing access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in nonurban areas will prevent HIV acquisition and could address the growing HIV epidemic. No studies have quantified the associations between PrEP access and PrEP use among nonurban MSM. METHODS Using 2020 PrEP Locator data and American Men's Internet Survey data, we conducted multilevel log-binomial regression to examine the association between area-level geographic accessibility of PrEP-providing clinics and individual-level PrEP use among MSM residing in nonurban areas in the United States. FINDINGS Of 4,792 PrEP-eligible nonurban MSM, 20.1% resided in a PrEP desert (defined as more than a 30-minute drive to access PrEP), and 15.2% used PrEP in the past 12 months. In adjusted models, suburban MSM residing in PrEP deserts were less likely to use PrEP in the past year (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 0.35; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.15, 0.80) than suburban MSM not residing in PrEP deserts, and other nonurban MSM residing in PrEP deserts were less likely to use PrEP in the past year (aPR = 0.75; 95% CI = 0.60, 0.95) than other nonurban MSM not residing in PrEP deserts. CONCLUSIONS Structural interventions designed to decrease barriers to PrEP access that are unique to nonurban areas in the United States are needed to address the growing HIV epidemic in these communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Danielle Sharpe
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Travis H. Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Aaron J. Siegler
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jodie L. Guest
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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7
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Pope CN, Stavrinos D, Fazeli PL, Vance DE. Transportation Barriers and Health-Related Quality of Life in a Sample of Middle-Aged and Older Adults Living with HIV in the Deep South. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2148-2158. [PMID: 35066731 PMCID: PMC8783768 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03560-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Access to reliable transportation is a social determinant of health imperative for disease management for those aging with HIV/AIDS. To what degree transportation barriers are associated with health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in middle-aged and older people living with HIV (PWH) in the Deep South region of the United States is presently unknown. PWH (n = 261, age range = 39 to 73 years old, 80.1% African American, 64.4% male) were recruited from an academic medical center in the Deep South. Variables included sociodemographics, HIV characteristics, depressive symptoms, HRQOL, and perceived transportation barriers. Spearman rho correlations and linear regressions accounting for covariates were conducted. After accounting for covariates, greater perceived transportation barriers were associated with worse health perceptions, pain, social functioning, health distress, and health transitions. Access to reliable transportation is a key factor in improving health for PWH. Considerations for healthcare and traffic safety are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin N Pope
- Department of Health, Behavior & Society, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
- Graduate Center for Gerontology, 725 Rose St. Suite 401 Multidisciplinary Sciences Building, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA.
| | - Despina Stavrinos
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Pariya L Fazeli
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - David E Vance
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Mitchell P, Samsel S, Curtin KM, Price A, Turner D, Tramp R, Hudnall M, Parton J, Lewis D. Geographic disparities in access to Medication for Opioid Use Disorder across US census tracts based on treatment utilization behavior. Soc Sci Med 2022; 302:114992. [PMID: 35512612 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.114992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in the U.S. with deaths from opioid overdose occurring at a higher rate in rural areas. The gaps in the provision of healthcare services have been exacerbated by the opioid crisis leaving vulnerable populations without access to preventative care and education, harm reduction, both chronic and acute treatment of the symptoms of opioid use disorder (OUD), and long-term psychological support for those with OUD and their families. There has been a call in the literature -and a federal mandate-for increased access to opioid treatment facilities, but to date this access has not been operationalized using best practices in geography. Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) with FDA-approved methadone or buprenorphine has been shown to increase treatment retention, reduce opioid use and associated health and societal harms, and reduce opioid related overdose, and as such is considered the most effective treatment for OUD. The objective of this study is to examine U.S. adults' spatial access to MOUD - specifically locations of certified Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) and DATA-waived Buprenorphine providers. A gravity-based variant of the enhanced two-step floating catchment area model is employed, where friction of distance is based on previously published willingness to travel distances for patients visiting OTPs, to assess how opioid agonist treatment accessibility varies across the nation. Findings suggest that there are extensive 'treatment deserts' where there is little to no physical access to MOUD, especially in rural areas. The significance of this work lies in the incorporation of treatment utilization behavior in the access metric, and the continued confirmation of gaps in access to OUD services despite federal efforts to improve accessibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penelope Mitchell
- Department of Geography, Laboratory for Location Science, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA.
| | - Steven Samsel
- Institute of Data & Analytics, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Kevin M Curtin
- Department of Geography, Laboratory for Location Science, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Ashleigh Price
- Department of Geography, Laboratory for Location Science, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Daniel Turner
- Department of Geography, Laboratory for Location Science, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Ryan Tramp
- Institute of Data & Analytics, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Matthew Hudnall
- Department of Information Systems, Operations Management, and Statistics, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Jason Parton
- Department of Information Systems, Operations Management, and Statistics, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Dwight Lewis
- Department of Management, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
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Hutson SP, West FL, Giron J. Perceptions of Advance Care Planning Needs of Persons Living With HIV in Appalachia: A Qualitative Descriptive Study. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2022; 39:1452-1459. [PMID: 35442114 DOI: 10.1177/10499091221087697] [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: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Persons living with Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are living longer, healthier lives due to advancements in antiretroviral therapies and access to lifelong treatment. Yet, in rural Appalachia, access to adequate medical care is complicated by factors such as geography and lack of access to resources. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of advance care planning (ACP) needs of persons living with HIV (PLWH) in Appalachian Tennessee and Alabama. Using a qualitative-descriptive design, we analyzed patterns of responses to face-to-face, semi-structured interviews of 40 PLWH as part of a larger multi-site mixed method study. Data demonstrated high patient satisfaction with medical care and good relationships with providers. However, common themes arose surrounding stigma, inadequate finances, and dislike of the term "end-of-life." Findings from this study fill a gap in the extant science pertaining to the focus of ACP in the unique population of rural Appalachia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Frankie L West
- College of Arts and Sciences, 2739Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, NC, USA
| | - Joelle Giron
- College of Nursing Knoxville, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
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Allen ST, White RH, O'Rourke A, Schneider KE, Weir BW, Lucas GM, Kilkenny ME, Sherman SG. Syringe Coverage Among People Who Inject Drugs in West Virginia, USA. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:3377-3385. [PMID: 33886011 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03247-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Ensuring people who inject drugs (PWID) have ≥ 100% sterile syringe coverage (i.e., persons have access to a sterile syringe for all injections) is optimal for HIV prevention. Existing syringe coverage literature is informative, yet little work has examined syringe coverage among PWID in rural communities. Using data from a 2018 PWID population estimation study conducted in a rural county in West Virginia, we used logistic regression to identify correlates of adequate sterile syringe coverage (at least 100%). A minority (37%) of PWID reported having adequate syringe coverage. Factors inversely associated with adequate syringe coverage included having recently (past 6 months): engaged in transactional sex work, shared syringes, and injected fentanyl. Having exclusively acquired syringes from a syringe services program was associated with increased odds of adequate syringe coverage. Rural PWID may benefit from tailored interventions designed to increase sterile syringe access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean T Allen
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Rebecca Hamilton White
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Allison O'Rourke
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, DC Center for AIDS Research, George Washington University, 2125 G St. NW, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - Kristin E Schneider
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Brian W Weir
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Gregory M Lucas
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 1830 E. Monument St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Michael E Kilkenny
- Cabell-Huntington Health Department, 703 7th Ave., Huntington, WV, 25701, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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Parry RA, Zule WA, Hurt CB, Evon DM, Rhea SK, Carpenter DM. Pharmacist attitudes and provision of harm reduction services in North Carolina: an exploratory study. Harm Reduct J 2021; 18:70. [PMID: 34238306 PMCID: PMC8265050 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-021-00517-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare providers in the United States and uniquely positioned to provide harm reduction services. The availability of pharmacy-based harm reduction services and pharmacist attitudes toward delivering these services have been understudied to date. We examine North Carolina (NC) pharmacists' experiences with and attitudes about harm reduction services and explore differences between rural and urban pharmacists. METHODS A convenience sample of NC pharmacists participated in an anonymous, online survey regarding harm reduction services: non-prescription syringe sales; naloxone dispensing; and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening. Urban-rural differences were analyzed using Pearson's chi-square or Fisher's exact tests. Open-ended responses were analyzed thematically. RESULTS Three hundred pharmacists responded to the survey; 68 (23%) practiced in rural counties. Dispensing non-prescription syringes and naloxone at least occasionally was reported by 77% (n = 231) and 88% (n = 263) pharmacists, respectively. Pharmacy-delivered HIV or HCV screening was rare. Urban pharmacists dispensed naloxone more frequently than rural pharmacies (p = 0.04). Only 52% of pharmacists agreed that persons who inject drugs should always be allowed to buy non-prescription syringes. Rural pharmacists' attitudes toward harm reduction services for persons who inject drugs were statistically, though marginally, less supportive when compared to urban pharmacists' attitudes. The most common barrier to non-prescription syringe access was requiring patients to provide proof of prescription injection medication use, which 21% of pharmacists reported was required by their pharmacy's policy on non-prescription syringe sales. CONCLUSIONS Although most pharmacies distributed naloxone and sold non-prescription syringes, pharmacy store policies and personal beliefs inhibited naloxone and non-prescription syringe dispensing. NC community pharmacies infrequently offer HIV and HCV screening. Paired with disseminating the evidence of the positive impact of harm reduction on individual and public health outcomes to NC pharmacists, institutional and systems changes to practice and policy may be important to promote harm reduction service availability, particularly for rural NC residents. TRIAL REGISTRATION N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Parry
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, 201 Pharmacy Lane, CB 7355, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7355, USA.
| | - William A Zule
- RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Rd., PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709-2194, USA
| | - Christopher B Hurt
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 130 Mason Farm Rd, CB#7030, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7030, USA
| | - Donna M Evon
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Sarah K Rhea
- RTI International, 3040 East Cornwallis Rd., PO Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709-2194, USA
| | - Delesha M Carpenter
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, 201 Pharmacy Lane, CB 7355, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7355, USA
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Edmonds A, Haley DF, Tong W, Kempf MC, Rahangdale L, Adimora AA, Anastos K, Cohen MH, Fischl M, Wilson TE, Wingood G, Konkle-Parker D. Associations between population density and clinical and sociodemographic factors in women living with HIV in the Southern United States. AIDS Care 2021; 33:229-238. [PMID: 32449377 PMCID: PMC7686024 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1769829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
To explore the associations of urbanicity with clinical/behavioral outcomes and sociodemographic factors among women living with HIV in the Southern United States, 523 participants of the Women's Interagency HIV Study were classified into population density quartiles. Rural-Urban Commuting Area codes revealed that 7% resided in areas where >30% commute to urban areas, 2% resided in small towns or rural areas, and 91% resided in varying densities of urban areas. Although women in lower density, mostly suburban areas reported higher socioeconomic indicators such as advanced education and greater annual household income, larger proportions of women in the lowest density quartile perceived discrimination in health care settings and agreed with several internalized HIV stigma scale items. Women in the lower quartiles had higher CD4 counts, while those in the lowest quartile were more likely to have a suppressed HIV viral load, report being employed, and not report a history of drug use or current heavy alcohol use. More research is needed to understand the interplay between population density and mechanisms contributing to HIV control as well as increased internalized stigma and perceived discrimination, along with how to target interventions to improve outcomes for individuals with HIV across urban, suburban, and rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Edmonds
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Danielle F Haley
- Northeastern University, Department of Health Sciences, Institute for Health Equity and Social Justice Research, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Boston, MA
| | | | | | - Lisa Rahangdale
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Adaora A Adimora
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Kathryn Anastos
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center, Departments of Medicine, Epidemiology, and Population Health, Bronx, NY
| | - Mardge H Cohen
- Departments of Medicine, Stroger Hospital of Cook County and Rush University, Chicago, IL
| | - Margaret Fischl
- University of Miami School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Miami, FL
| | - Tracey E Wilson
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Department of Community Health Sciences
| | - Gina Wingood
- Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY
| | - Deborah Konkle-Parker
- University of Mississippi Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Jackson, MS
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13
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Davis A, Allen Z, Nascimento ND, Chapman J, Donco R, Velthausz D. A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of the Drivers of HIV Status Knowledge in Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Mozambique. GLOBAL HEALTH: SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2020; 8:534-548. [PMID: 33008862 PMCID: PMC7541122 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-20-00311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
We identified combinations of modifiable factors that HIV programs supporting orphans, vulnerable children, and their families may be able to act on to increase the proportion of beneficiaries who know their HIV status. In Mozambique, more than a million children are living with HIV or are otherwise vulnerable due to HIV. In response to this crisis, the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief funds programs that serve orphans and vulnerable children affected by HIV and their families. These programs retain case workers, known as activistas, who provide and refer beneficiaries to services to increase beneficiaries’ knowledge of their HIV status and to improve retention in care among those living with HIV. To improve program effectiveness, implementing organizations need to understand how different case management attributes affect beneficiary outcomes. We applied fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (QCA), based on 119 interviews, to identify the combinations of case management attributes that led to (1) increased knowledge of HIV status, and (2) high percentages of beneficiaries with known HIV status. We identified 6 pathways for the first outcome and 5 pathways for the second outcome. Each pathway demonstrates an alternative combination of conditions that positively influences the outcome and is equally sufficient in achieving the outcome. To improve knowledge of HIV status, programs in a similar context as this study may select any of the identified pathways based on their existing resources and work on ensuring the presence of each of the conditions in the pathway. Overall, based on the presence of some of the factors in multiple pathways, we conclude that to improve knowledge of HIV status it is important that programs implement a formal process to assign cases considering case complexity and existing caseload to reduce overwork; provide activistas with external support such as weekly care team meetings, weekly supervisor meetings, and/or low supervision ratios; hire experienced activistas; provide all activistas with follow-up trainings so they have the tools to address challenging cases; expand the financial resources offered to activistas; and reimburse activistas for work-related expenses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allie Davis
- American Institute of Physics State Department Science Fellow, US Department of State, Washington, DC, USA
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14
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Allen ST, Grieb SM, White RH, O’Rourke A, Kilkenny ME, Jones CM, Latkin C, Sherman SG. Human Immunodeficiency Virus Testing Among People Who Inject Drugs in Rural West Virginia. J Infect Dis 2020; 222:S346-S353. [PMID: 32877553 PMCID: PMC7566638 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiz598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited research exists on factors associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing among people who inject drugs (PWID) in rural America. The purpose of this research is to identify factors associated with rural PWID in Appalachia having not been tested for HIV in the past year. METHODS Cross-sectional data (n = 408) from a 2018 PWID population estimation study in West Virginia were used to examine factors associated with PWID having not been tested for HIV in the past year. RESULTS Most participants identified as male (61%), white, non-Hispanic (84%), and reported having recently injected heroin (81%) and/or crystal methamphetamine (71%). Most (64%) reported having been tested for HIV in the past year, 17% reported having been tested but not in the past year, and 19% reported never having been tested. In multivariable analysis, not having been in a drug treatment program in the past year was associated with PWID not having been tested for HIV in the past year (adjusted prevalence ratio, 1.430; 95% confidence interval, 1.080-1.894). CONCLUSIONS Drug treatment programs may be important venues for rural PWID to access HIV testing; however, testing services should be offered at multiple venues as most PWID had not engaged in drug treatment in the past year.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean T Allen
- Department of Health, Behavior & Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Suzanne M Grieb
- Center for Child and Community Health Research, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Rebecca Hamilton White
- Department of Health, Behavior & Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Allison O’Rourke
- DC Center for AIDS Research, Department of Psychology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Christopher M Jones
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Carl Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior & Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior & Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Urban and Rural Differences: Unmet Needs for Symptom Management in People Living With HIV in China. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2020; 30:206-217. [PMID: 30822292 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Access to HIV care has increased in China, but regional disparities for the unmet symptom management needs of people living with HIV remain. Little attention has been paid to these disparities, especially in rural areas. We describe unmet symptom management needs in 1,214 people living with HIV from five HIV hospitals in the eastern coast, middle, and southern regions of China. Insomnia, abnormal dreams, and fatigue were the most common unmet needs of patients in urban China, whereas cognitive problems and blurry vision were the most common in rural China. Self-management capacity, discrimination, and symptom severity predicted more unmet symptom management needs for patients in urban areas. Medication adherence, basic function, and symptom severity predicted more unmet needs among patients in rural areas. Our results have implications for nurses in HIV care and HIV policymakers. Separate interventions targeting the urban and rural areas must be implemented to meet patient symptom management needs.
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Allen ST, O'Rourke A, White RH, Smith KC, Weir B, Lucas GM, Sherman SG, Grieb SM. Barriers and Facilitators to PrEP Use Among People Who Inject Drugs in Rural Appalachia: A Qualitative Study. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:1942-1950. [PMID: 31853771 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02767-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The opioid crisis has increased risks for injection drug use-associated HIV outbreaks in rural communities throughout the United States. Existing research has examined pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) utilization among people who inject drugs (PWID); however, no studies have been conducted to explore barriers and facilitators of PrEP use among rural PWID in Appalachia. We conducted qualitative interviews with PWID (n = 48) in two rural counties in West Virginia to explore barriers and facilitators of PrEP use. Among our participants, the majority (68.8%) had never heard of PrEP. Upon learning about PrEP, most participants expressed willingness to use it. Rural PWID described several factors that may impede PrEP utilization (e.g., housing instability, forgetting to take PrEP). Participants also identified practical strategies to support sustained PrEP utilization, such as integrating PrEP services into venues PWID access. This research provides important insights into the barriers and facilitators of PrEP utilization among rural PWID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean T Allen
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Allison O'Rourke
- DC Center for AIDS Research, Department of Psychology, George Washington University, 2125 G St. NW, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - Rebecca Hamilton White
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Katherine C Smith
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Brian Weir
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Gregory M Lucas
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 1830 E. Monument St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Suzanne M Grieb
- Center for Child and Community Health Research, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
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17
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Marhefka SL, Lockhart E, Turner D, Wang W, Dolcini MM, Baldwin JA, Roig-Romero RM, Lescano CM, Glueckauf RL. Social Determinants of Potential eHealth Engagement Among People Living with HIV Receiving Ryan White Case Management: Health Equity Implications from Project TECH. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:1463-1475. [PMID: 31828450 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02723-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Evaluate the relationships between social characteristics of Floridian persons living with HIV (PLWH) and both use of digital technologies and willingness to use eHealth for HIV-related information. METHODS Ryan White case managers (N = 155) from 55 agencies in 47 Florida counties administered a survey to PLWH (N = 1268) from June 2016-April 2017. Multilevel logistic regression models were used to identify correlates of technology use and willingness. RESULTS Use of mobile phones with text messaging was high (89%). Older (vs. younger) adults and non-Hispanic blacks (vs. whites) were less likely to use most technologies. These groups, along with Hispanics (vs. whites) were less likely to express willingness to use technologies for HIV-related information in models adjusting for use. CONCLUSIONS Among PLWH in Florida, eHealth-related inequities exist. Willingness to engage in HIV-related eHealth is affected by social determinants, even when considering technology access. Although eHealth may reduce some healthcare inequities, it may exacerbate others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Marhefka
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.
| | - Elizabeth Lockhart
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - DeAnne Turner
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Wei Wang
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada
| | - M Margaret Dolcini
- Hallie E. Ford Center for Healthy Children and Families, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Julie A Baldwin
- Department of Health Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Regina Maria Roig-Romero
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MDC 56, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Celia M Lescano
- Department of Mental Health Law & Policy, College of Behavioral & Community Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Robert L Glueckauf
- Department of Behavioral Sciences & Social Medicine, College of Medicine Florida State University, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
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18
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Klein PW, Geiger T, Chavis NS, Cohen SM, Ofori AB, Umali KT, Hauck H. The Health Resources and Services Administration's Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program in rural areas of the United States: Geographic distribution, provider characteristics, and clinical outcomes. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230121. [PMID: 32203556 PMCID: PMC7089565 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People living with HIV (PLWH) residing in rural areas experience substantial barriers to HIV care, which may contribute to poor HIV health outcomes, including retention in HIV care and viral suppression. The Health Resources and Services Administration’s Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (HRSA RWHAP) is an important source of HIV medical care and support services in rural areas. The purpose of this analysis was to (1) assess the reach of the RWHAP in rural areas of the United States, (2) compare the characteristics and funded services of RWHAP provider organizations in rural and non-rural areas, and (3) compare the characteristics and clinical outcomes of RWHAP clients accessing medical care and support services in rural and non-rural areas. Methods and findings Data for this analysis were abstracted from the 2017 RWHAP Services Report (RSR), the primary source of annual, client-level RWHAP data. Organizations funded to deliver RWHAP any service (“RWHAP providers”) were categorized as rural or non-rural according to the HRSA FORHP’s definition of modified Rural-Urban Commuting Area (RUCA) codes. RWHAP clients were categorized based on their patterns of RWHAP service use as “visited only rural providers,” “visited only non-rural providers,” or “visited rural and non-rural providers.” In 2017, among the 2,113 providers funded by the RWHAP, 6.2% (n = 132) were located in HRSA-designated rural areas. Rural providers were funded to deliver a greater number of service categories per site than non-rural providers (44.7% funded for ≥5 services vs. 34.1% funded for ≥5 services, respectively). Providers in rural areas served fewer clients than providers in non-rural areas; 47.3% of RWHAP providers in rural areas served 1–99 clients, while 29.6% of non-rural providers served 1–99 clients. Retention in care and viral suppression outcomes did not differ on the basis of whether a client accessed services from rural or non-rural providers. Conclusions RWHAP providers are a crucial component of HIV care delivery in the rural United States despite evidence of significant barriers to engagement in care for rural PLWH, RWHAP clients who visited rural providers were just as likely to be retained in care and reach viral suppression as their counterparts who visited non-rural providers. The RWHAP, especially in partnership with Rural Health Clinics and federally funded Health Centers, has the infrastructure and expertise necessary to address the HIV epidemic in rural America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela W. Klein
- HIV/AIDS Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Tanya Geiger
- HIV/AIDS Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Nicole S. Chavis
- HIV/AIDS Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Stacy M. Cohen
- HIV/AIDS Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Alexa B. Ofori
- Federal Office of Rural Health Policy, Health Resources and Services Administration, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kathryn T. Umali
- Federal Office of Rural Health Policy, Health Resources and Services Administration, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Heather Hauck
- HIV/AIDS Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
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19
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Owens C, Hubach RD, Williams D, Lester J, Reece M, Dodge B. Exploring the Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Health Care Experiences Among Men Who Have Sex With Men (MSM) Who Live in Rural Areas of the Midwest. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2020; 32:51-66. [PMID: 32073310 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2020.32.1.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Most pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) research samples men who have sex with men (MSM) who live in metropolitan cities. There is a limited understanding of the PrEP experiences among rural MSM. Thirty-four semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore the PrEP health care experiences among 34 rural Midwestern MSM. Of the 34 participants, 23 obtained PrEP from their non-primary care provider (PCP). Three themes were present: (1) PrEP is unavailable in rural areas, (2) PrEP is inaccessible in rural areas due to PCPs being unwilling to prescribe PrEP, and (3) PrEP services are unamicable in rural areas due to stigmatizing attitudes and behaviors of PCPs. It is important to address PrEP care continuum factors in all settings; however, these factors are often exacerbated in rural areas due to social determinants. Without further research and programming, organizational and social determinants may contribute to lower rates of PrEP outcomes in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Owens
- Center for Sexual Health Promotion, School of Public Health-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Randolph D Hubach
- Center for Rural Health, Center for Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Tulsa, Oklahoma
| | - Deana Williams
- Center for Sexual Health Promotion, School of Public Health-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Jessica Lester
- Department of Counseling and Educational Psychology, School of Education, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Michael Reece
- Department of Social and Public Health, College of Health Sciences and Professions, Ohio State University, Athens, Ohio
| | - Brian Dodge
- Center for Sexual Health Promotion, School of Public Health-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
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20
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Lauckner C, Taylor E, Patel D, Whitmire A. The feasibility of using smartphones and mobile breathalyzers to monitor alcohol consumption among people living with HIV/AIDS. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2019; 14:43. [PMID: 31771655 PMCID: PMC6880509 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-019-0174-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background For people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA), alcohol consumption is associated with poor treatment outcomes and medication adherence. This pilot study examined the feasibility of using smartphones and mobile Bluetooth breathalyzers for monitoring alcohol consumption among PLWHA (N = 17). Methods For 2 weeks, participants responded to twice-daily text message prompts by completing a breathalyzer reading and a mobile survey about their alcohol use. They also completed baseline questionnaires assessing alcohol consumption and hazardous drinking behaviors. Results Participants completed an average of 22 of 28 breathalyzer readings and 17 of 28 mobile surveys, and were more likely to complete daytime (vs. evening) monitoring tasks. Results suggested that self-reported frequency of binge drinking at baseline was related to an increased number of days with alcohol consumption according to breathalyzer and mobile surveys, as well as a higher average blood alcohol content. Qualitative interviews found generally positive attitudes toward the technologies, but some participants reported experiencing technical difficulties. Conclusions Overall, this preliminary research suggests that smartphone monitoring of alcohol consumption among PLWHA may reflect cross-sectional self-reported alcohol consumption behaviors, but could use improvements to increase adherence to monitoring tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Lauckner
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, University of Georgia, 321B Wright Hall, 100 Foster Rd, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
| | - Erica Taylor
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, University of Georgia, 321B Wright Hall, 100 Foster Rd, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Darshti Patel
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, University of Georgia, 321B Wright Hall, 100 Foster Rd, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Alexis Whitmire
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, University of Georgia, 321B Wright Hall, 100 Foster Rd, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
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21
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Heckman TG, Markowitz JC, Heckman BD, Woldu H, Anderson T, Lovejoy TI, Shen Y, Sutton M, Yarber W. A Randomized Clinical Trial Showing Persisting Reductions in Depressive Symptoms in HIV-Infected Rural Adults Following Brief Telephone-Administered Interpersonal Psychotherapy. Ann Behav Med 2019; 52:299-308. [PMID: 30084893 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kax015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rural areas account for 5% to 7% of all HIV infections in the USA, and rural people living with HIV (PLHIV) are 1.3 times more likely to receive a depression diagnosis than their urban counterparts. A previous analysis from our randomized clinical trial found that nine weekly sessions of telephone-administered interpersonal psychotherapy (tele-IPT) reduced depressive symptoms and interpersonal problems in rural PLHIV from preintervention through postintervention significantly more than standard care but did not increase perceived social support compared to standard care. Purpose To assess tele-IPT's enduring effects at 4- and 8-month follow-up in this cohort. Methods Tele-IPT's long-term depression treatment efficacy was assessed through Beck Depression Inventory self-administrations at 4 and 8 months. Using intention-to-treat and completer-only approaches, mixed models repeated measures, and Cohen's d assessed maintenance of acute treatment gains. Results Intention-to-treat analyses found fewer depressive symptoms in tele-IPT patients than standard care controls at 4 (d = .41; p < .06) and 8-month follow-up (d =.47; p < .05). Completer-only analyses found similar patterns, with larger effect sizes. Tele-IPT patients used crisis hotlines less frequently than standard care controls at postintervention and 4-month follow-up (ps < .05). Conclusions Tele-IPT provides longer term depression relief in depressed rural PLHIV. This is also the first controlled trial to find that IPT administered over the telephone provides long-term depressive symptom relief to any clinical population. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02299453.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy G Heckman
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
| | - John C Markowitz
- Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, NY
| | - Bernadette D Heckman
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
| | - Henok Woldu
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
| | | | | | - Ye Shen
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
| | - Mark Sutton
- Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, NY
| | - William Yarber
- Department of Applied Health and Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN USA
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22
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Repeat Human Immunodeficiency Virus Testing by Transmission Risk Group and Rurality of Residence in North Carolina. Sex Transm Dis 2019; 45:684-689. [PMID: 29771865 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000000866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding of repeat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing (RHT) is limited and the impact of rural residence as a potential barrier to RHT is unknown. Rural populations are of particular interest in the Southeastern United States because of their disproportionate HIV burden. METHODS We used HIV surveillance data from publicly funded HIV testing sites in North Carolina to assess repeat testing by transmission risk group and residential rurality in a retrospective cohort study. Linear binomial regression models were used to estimate adjusted, 1-year cumulative incidences and cumulative incidence differences comparing RHT within transmission risk populations by level of rurality. RESULTS In our total study population of 600,613 persons, 19,275 (3.2%) and 9567 (1.6%) self-identified as men who have sex with men (MSM) and persons who inject drugs (PWID), respectively. A small minority, 13,723 (2.3%) resided in rural ZIP codes. Men who have sex with men were most likely to repeat test (unadjusted, 1-year cumulative incidence after an initial negative test, 16.4%) compared with PWID (13.2%) and persons who did not identify as either MSM or PWID (13.6%). The greatest effect of rurality was within PWID; the adjusted, 1-year cumulative incidence of RHT was 6.4 (95% confidence interval, 1.4-11.4) percentage points higher among metropolitan versus rural PWID. CONCLUSIONS One-year cumulative incidence of RHT was low among all clients of publicly funded HIV testing sites in North Carolina, including MSM and PWID for whom annual testing is recommended. Our findings suggest a need for public health efforts to increase access to and support for RHT, particularly among rural PWID.
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23
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Rural-Urban Differences in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Testing Among US Adults: Findings From the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Sex Transm Dis 2019; 45:808-812. [PMID: 29965946 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000000888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Individuals in rural areas of the United States face barriers to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related health care. We aim to assess differences in frequency of lifetime and past-year HIV testing, and differences in testing site location between rural and urban residents of the United States. METHODS Data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System 2015 were analyzed on 250,579 respondents 18 years or older. Weighted multinomial logistic regression analyses compared urban/rural differences in lifetime and past-year HIV testing. Weighted multinomial logistic regression compared urban/rural differences in HIV testing site. RESULTS Overall, 26.9% of urban residents and 21.5% of rural residents reported testing for HIV in their lifetime. Of urban residents, 24.5% reported receiving an HIV test in the past year compared with 20.2% of rural residents. Living in a rural area was associated with lower odds of lifetime (odds ratio [OR], 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.81-0.90) and past-year HIV testing (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.74-0.95) compared with not testing. Rural residents had higher odds of receiving an HIV test at the hospital or emergency room (adjusted OR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.23-1.62) or clinic (adjusted OR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.02-1.24) than a doctor's office. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights significant rural health disparities in rates of lifetime and past-year HIV testing. Targeted interventions are needed to remove structural barriers in rural communities, such as long distances to clinics and low availability of free HIV testing at clinics serving the uninsured or underinsured. Furthermore, rural providers should be encouraged to routinely offer HIV screening to their patients.
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McManus KA, Debolt C, Elwood S, Saint-Surin T, Winstead-Derlega C, Brennan RO, Dillingham R, Flickinger TE. Facilitators and Barriers: Clients' Perspective on the Virginia AIDS Drug Assistance Program's Affordable Care Act Implementation. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2019; 35:734-745. [PMID: 31146536 PMCID: PMC6688112 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2018.0254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Many AIDS drug assistance programs (ADAPs) purchased Affordable Care Act (ACA) qualified health plans (QHPs) for low-income people living with HIV. To date, little has been written about this from the client perspective. The study's objective was to gain information about the experience of Virginia ADAP-funded QHP enrollment and the impact of this change. English-speaking clients who were eligible for ADAP-funded QHPs were recruited at three HIV clinics in Virginia. The goal was to enroll ≥5% of those who were eligible for ADAP-funded QHPs in two Virginia Department of Health planning districts. Participants were surveyed about demographic characteristics, and semi-structured interviews were performed. Descriptive analyses were performed for cohort characteristics. Using an open coding strategy, codebooks were generated for the interviews and themes were identified. The cohort (n = 53) met our recruitment goal. Two-thirds gained their ACA knowledge at HIV clinics from case managers and social workers. Many barriers to enrollment were identified, including internet access/literacy. Almost 9 out of 10 participants had concerns about privacy, which centered on QHP's mandated use of mail-order pharmacies. Except for medication concerns, most participants had positive perceptions of the impact of QHP enrollment on their health care. HIV clinic case managers and social workers are often the primary source of knowledge for patients about insurance options and their assistance is crucial for QHP enrollment. Our findings indicate that reducing identified barriers and addressing privacy concerns by allowing people to opt out of mail order pharmacies may encourage QHP enrollment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen A. McManus
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
- Center for Health Policy, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Claire Debolt
- School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Sarah Elwood
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | | | | | - Robert O. Brennan
- Infectious Diseases Associates of Central Virginia, Lynchburg, Virginia
| | - Rebecca Dillingham
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
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Jain KM, Bhat P, Maulsby C, Andersen A, Soto T, Tarrant A, Holtgrave DR, Nortrup E, Werner M, Dill L. Extending access to care across the rural US south: Preliminary results from the Alabama eHealth programme. J Telemed Telecare 2019; 25:301-309. [PMID: 29448879 PMCID: PMC6445775 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x18755227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Using a mixed-methods formative evaluation, the purpose of this study was to provide a broad overview of the Alabama eHealth programme set-up and initial patient outcomes. The Alabama eHealth programme uses telemedicine to provide medical care to people living with HIV in rural Alabama. It was led by a community-based organisation, Medical Advocacy and Outreach (MAO), and supported by AIDS United and the Corporation for National Community Service's Social Innovation Fund with matching support from non-federal donors. METHODS We conducted and transcribed in-depth interviews with Alabama eHealth staff and then performed directed content analysis. We also tracked patients' ( n = 240) appointment attendance, CD4 counts, and viral loads. FINDINGS Staff described the steps taken to establish the programme, associated challenges (e.g., costly, inadequate broadband in rural areas), and technology enabling this programme (electronic medical records, telemedicine equipment). Of all enrolled patients, 76% were retained in care, 88% had antiretroviral therapy and 75% had a suppressed viral load. Among patients without missing data, 96% were retained in care, 97% used antiretroviral therapy and 93% had suppressed viral loads. There were no statistically significant demographic differences between those with and without missing data. CONCLUSIONS Patients enrolled in a telemedicine programme evaluation successfully moved through the HIV continuum of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kriti M Jain
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA
| | | | - Cathy Maulsby
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA
| | | | - Tomas Soto
- Medical Advocacy and Outreach of Alabama, USA
| | | | - David R Holtgrave
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA
| | | | | | - Laurie Dill
- Medical Advocacy and Outreach of Alabama, USA
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Allen ST, Grieb SM, O'Rourke A, Yoder R, Planchet E, White RH, Sherman SG. Understanding the public health consequences of suspending a rural syringe services program: a qualitative study of the experiences of people who inject drugs. Harm Reduct J 2019; 16:33. [PMID: 31109339 PMCID: PMC6528286 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-019-0305-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Syringe services programs (SSPs) are evidence-based interventions that are associated with decreases in prevalence and incidence rates of HIV and viral hepatitis among people who inject drugs (PWID). SSPs are also effective conduits to deliver overdose prevention resources among PWID. In December 2015, the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department (KCHD) in West Virginia implemented a SSP; however, the program was indefinitely suspended in early 2018 following policy changes that would have forced the program to operate in ways that conflicted with established best practices. The purpose of this research is to explore the public health implications of the suspension of the KCHD SSP among rural PWID. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with 27 PWID (59.3% male, 88.9% White) to explore access to sterile injection equipment and overdose prevention resources, high-risk injection practices, and HIV risk perceptions following the KCHD SSP suspension. Participants were recruited from street locations frequented by PWID. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. We employed an iterative, modified constant comparison approach to systematically code and synthesize textual interview data. RESULTS Participants described the KCHD SSP as providing a variety of harm reduction services to PWID and being able to speak honestly with SSP staff about their drug use without fear of stigmatization. The suspension of the KCHD SSP fundamentally changed the public health landscape for PWID, ushering in a new era of increased risks for acquiring bloodborne infections and overdose. PWID described more frequently injecting with used syringes and engaging in a range of high-risk injection practices after the SSP was suspended. PWID also discussed having decreased access to naloxone and being less likely to get routinely tested for HIV following the KCHD SSP suspension. CONCLUSIONS This research demonstrates that the suspension of a SSP in rural West Virginia increased risks for HIV/HCV acquisition and overdose among PWID. The suspension of the SSP led to community-wide decreases in access to sterile injection equipment and naloxone among PWID. The suspension of the KCHD SSP should be viewed as a call to action for sustaining evidence-based interventions in the face of sociopolitical forces that attempt to subvert public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean T Allen
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Suzanne M Grieb
- Center for Child and Community Health Research, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Allison O'Rourke
- DC Center for AIDS Research, Department of Psychology, George Washington University, 2125 G St. NW, Washington, DC, 20052, USA
| | - Ryan Yoder
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Elise Planchet
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Rebecca Hamilton White
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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Hill M, Huff A, Chumbler N. "I'm Gonna Get Busy Living": Examining the Trajectories of Affect, Behavioral Health, and Psychological Resilience Among Persons Living With HIV in a Southeastern U.S. Health District. Glob Qual Nurs Res 2019; 6:2333393619834937. [PMID: 31069249 PMCID: PMC6492360 DOI: 10.1177/2333393619834937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Internal psychological states and coping processes are significant determinants
of resilience. The primary aim of this qualitative work is to provide further
insight into how core affect influences the adaptability of persons living with
HIV (PLWH) after diagnosis. In-depth interviews were conducted with a diverse
group of PLWH in a health district located in the Southeastern United States. A
deductive-inductive approach was taken while coding and analyzing,
N = 18 participant narratives concerning the psychological
and coping processes surrounding diagnosis and engagement in care. Active
behavioral and cognitive coping after diagnosis was exhibited by PLWH expressing
salient attributes of positive affect, whereas the salience of negative affect
among PLWH was associated with avoidant coping and heightened distress. Our
findings illuminate the beneficial role of positive affect and active coping on
the health and well-being of PLWH. The study implications extend to the
development and enhancement of programs designed to fortify psychological
resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amber Huff
- University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
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Collins B, Bronson H, Elamin F, Yerkes L, Martin E. The "No Wrong Door" Approach to HIV Testing: Results From a Statewide Retail Pharmacy-Based HIV Testing Program in Virginia, 2014-2016. Public Health Rep 2019; 133:34S-42S. [PMID: 30457955 PMCID: PMC6262519 DOI: 10.1177/0033354918801026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE As part of the Care and Prevention in the United States Demonstration Project (2012-2016), which aimed to reduce HIV-related morbidity and mortality among racial/ethnic minority groups in 8 states, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) funded Walgreens to provide HIV testing in retail pharmacies in areas with large racial/ethnic minority communities and high rates of poverty. We describe this program and summarize its outcomes. We hypothesized that (1) offering walk-in HIV testing outside of traditional business hours and alongside other point-of-care tests in retail pharmacies would increase rates of first-time testers and (2) using data on social determinants of health associated with higher rates of HIV infection to locate test sites would increase the identification of people who were previously undiagnosed. METHODS Using 2010 US Census data and 2007-2011 five-year population estimates from the American Community Survey, VDH selected 32 Walgreens stores located in census tracts where at least 30% of the population was black and/or Hispanic/Latino and/or where at least 20% of the population was living at or below the federal poverty level. Pharmacists administered the INSTI HIV-1/HIV-2 Rapid Antibody Test. Clients with a reactive test result were linked to confirmatory testing and medical care. RESULTS Between June 1, 2014, and September 29, 2016, Walgreens pharmacists performed HIV tests on 3630 clients, of whom 1668 (46.0%) had either never been tested or were unsure if they had been tested. Of all clients tested, 30 (0.8%) had a reactive test result. Of 26 clients who also had positive confirmatory testing, 22 (84.6%) were linked to care. The mean cost per person tested was $41.79, and the mean cost per reactive result was $5057. CONCLUSIONS Retail pharmacies may be an effective venue for those who have never been tested for HIV to access HIV testing, particularly if the pharmacies are located in priority areas or where community-based organizations are unable to operate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan Collins
- 1 Division of Disease Prevention, Virginia Department of Health, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Heather Bronson
- 1 Division of Disease Prevention, Virginia Department of Health, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Fatima Elamin
- 1 Division of Disease Prevention, Virginia Department of Health, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Lauren Yerkes
- 1 Division of Disease Prevention, Virginia Department of Health, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Elaine Martin
- 1 Division of Disease Prevention, Virginia Department of Health, Richmond, VA, USA
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Njei B, Esserman D, Krishnan S, Ohl M, Tate JP, Hauser G, Taddei T, Lim J. Regional and Rural-Urban Differences in the Use of Direct-acting Antiviral Agents for Hepatitis C Virus: The Veteran Birth Cohort. Med Care 2019; 57:279-285. [PMID: 30807449 PMCID: PMC6436819 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Veterans with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection may face geographic obstacles to obtaining treatment. OBJECTIVE We studied the influence of region and rural versus urban residence on receipt of direct-acting antiretroviral (DAA) medications for HCV. SUBJECTS Veterans receiving care within Veterans Affairs Healthcare System born between 1945 and 1965. RESEARCH DESIGN This is a observational study using national electronic health record data. MEASURES Receipt of DAAs was defined as ≥1 filled prescription from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2016. Region (South, Northeast, Midwest, and West) and residence (urban, rural-micropolitan, small rural towns, and isolated rural towns) variables were created using residential zone improvement plan codes and rural-urban commuting area (RUCA) codes. Multivariable models were adjusted for age, race, sex, severity of liver disease, comorbidities, and prior treatment experience. RESULTS Among 166,353 eligible patients 64,854 received, DAAs. Variation by rural-urban residence depended on region. In unadjusted analyses, receipt varied by rural-urban designations within Midwest, and West regions (P<0.05) but did not vary within the South (P=0.12). Southern rural small town had the lowest incidence of DAA receipt (40.1%), whereas the incidence was 52.9% in Midwestern isolated rural towns. In adjusted logistic analyses, compared with southern urban residents (the largest single group), southern rural small town residents had the lowest odds ratio, 0.85 (95% confidence interval, 0.75-0.93), and Midwestern residents from isolated and small rural towns had the highest odds (odds ratio, both 1.27) to receive treatment. CONCLUSIONS Substantial geographic variation exists in receipt of curative HCV treatment. Efforts are needed to provide more equitable access to DAAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basile Njei
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yale University School of Medicine, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06516, (312) 415-7525,
| | - Denise Esserman
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale University School of Public Health, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 300 George Street, New Haven, CT 06510-3210, (203)785-4297,
| | - Supriya Krishnan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, (203) 932-5711 ×5306,
| | - Michael Ohl
- University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Veterans Rural Health Resource Iowa City VA Medical Center, 601 Highway 6 West Iowa City, IA, 52246, (319)338-0581 ext. 3534,
| | - Janet P. Tate
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT,06516, (203) 932-5711 ×5371,
| | - George Hauser
- Center for Biomedical Data Science, Yale University School of Medicine, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516 (203)932-5711 ×7140,
| | - Tamar Taddei
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 950 Campbell Ave., West Haven, CT, 06516, (203) 932-5711 ×4696,
| | - Joseph Lim
- Department of Internal Medicine Yale University School of Medicine, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven CT, 06510, New Haven CT, (203)737-6063,
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Allan B, Closson K, Collins AB, Kibel M, Pan S, Cui Z, McLinden T, Parashar S, Lima VD, Chia J, Yip B, Barrios R, Montaner JSG, Hogg RS. Physicians' patient base composition and mortality among people living with HIV who initiated antiretroviral therapy in a universal care setting. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e023957. [PMID: 30898806 PMCID: PMC6475242 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-023957] [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] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the impact of physicians' patient base composition on all-cause mortality among people living with HIV (PLHIV) who initiated highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in British Columbia (BC), Canada. DESIGN Observational cohort study from 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2013. SETTING BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS' (BC-CfE) Drug Treatment Program, where HAART is available at no cost. PARTICIPANTS PLHIV aged ≥ 19 who initiated HAART in BC in the HAART Observational Medical Evaluation and Research (HOMER) Study. OUTCOME MEASURES All-cause mortality as determined through monthly linkages to the BC Vital Statistics Agency. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS We examined the relationships between patient characteristics, physicians' patient base composition, the location of the practice, and physicians' experience with PLHIV and all-cause mortality using unadjusted and adjusted Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS A total of 4 445 PLHIV (median age = 42, Q1, Q3 = 34-49; 80% male) were eligible for our study. Patients were seen by 683 prescribing physicians with a median experience of 77 previously treated PLHIV in the past 2 years (Q1, Q3 = 23-170). A multivariable Cox model indicated that the following factors were associated with all-cause mortality: age (aHR = 1.05 per 1-year increase, 95% CI = 1.04 to 1.06), year of HAART initiation (2004-2007: aHR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.53 to 0.81, 2008-2011: aHR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.35 to 0.61, Ref: 2000-2003), CD4 cell count at baseline (aHR = 0.88 per 100-unit increase in cells/mm3, 95% CI = 0.82 to 0.94), and < 95% adherence in first year on HAART (aHR = 2.28, 95% CI = 1.88 to 2.76). In addition, physicians' patient base composition, specifically, the proportion of patients who have a history of injection drug use (aHR = 1.11 per 10% increase in the proportion of patients, 95% CI = 1.07 to 1.15) or Indigenous ancestry (aHR = 1.07 per 10% increase , 95% CI = 1.03-1.11) and being a patient of a physician who primarily serves individuals outside of the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority region (aHR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.01 to 1.47) were associated with mortality. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that physicians with a higher proportion of individuals who face potential barriers to care may need additional supports to decrease mortality among their patients. Future research is required to examine these relationships in other settings and to determine strategies that may mitigate the associations between the composition of physicians' patient bases and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverly Allan
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kalysha Closson
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alexandra B Collins
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
- BC Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mia Kibel
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Shenyi Pan
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Zishan Cui
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Taylor McLinden
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Surita Parashar
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Viviane Dias Lima
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jason Chia
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Benita Yip
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rolando Barrios
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Julio S G Montaner
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Robert S Hogg
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
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Gomih A, Banks B, McKeithan L, Rajabiun S. NC-REACH: A Rural Patient-Centered Medical Home for People Living with HIV Who Experience Unstable Housing. Am J Public Health 2018; 108:S525-S527. [PMID: 32941774 PMCID: PMC6290575 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2018.304793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ayodele Gomih
- Ayodele Gomih is with the Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Bahby Banks is with Pillar Consulting, Durham, NC. Lisa McKeithan is with CommWell Health, Dunn, NC. Serena Rajabiun is with the Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA. Serena Rajabiun is also a Guest Editor for this supplement issue
| | - Bahby Banks
- Ayodele Gomih is with the Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Bahby Banks is with Pillar Consulting, Durham, NC. Lisa McKeithan is with CommWell Health, Dunn, NC. Serena Rajabiun is with the Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA. Serena Rajabiun is also a Guest Editor for this supplement issue
| | - Lisa McKeithan
- Ayodele Gomih is with the Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Bahby Banks is with Pillar Consulting, Durham, NC. Lisa McKeithan is with CommWell Health, Dunn, NC. Serena Rajabiun is with the Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA. Serena Rajabiun is also a Guest Editor for this supplement issue
| | - Serena Rajabiun
- Ayodele Gomih is with the Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Bahby Banks is with Pillar Consulting, Durham, NC. Lisa McKeithan is with CommWell Health, Dunn, NC. Serena Rajabiun is with the Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA. Serena Rajabiun is also a Guest Editor for this supplement issue
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Ludema C, Edmonds A, Cole SR, Eron JJ, Adedimeji AA, Cohen J, Cohen MH, Kassaye S, Konkle-Parker DJ, Metsch LR, Wingood GM, Wilson TE, Adimora AA. Comparing neighborhood and state contexts for women living with and without HIV: understanding the Southern HIV epidemic. AIDS Care 2018; 30:1360-1367. [PMID: 29962235 PMCID: PMC6283284 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1492696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
In the South, people living with HIV experience worse health outcomes than in other geographic regions, likely due to regional political, structural, and socioeconomic factors. We describe the neighborhoods of women (n = 1,800) living with and without HIV in the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS), a cohort with Southern sites in Chapel Hill, NC; Atlanta, GA; Birmingham, AL; Jackson, MS; and Miami, FL; and non-Southern sites in Brooklyn, NY; Bronx, NY; Washington, DC; San Francisco, CA; and Chicago, IL. In 2014, participants' addresses were geocoded and matched to several administrative data sources. There were a number of differences between the neighborhood contexts of Southern and non-Southern WIHS participants. Southern states had the lowest income eligibility thresholds for family Medicaid, and consequently higher proportions of uninsured individuals. Modeled proportions of income devoted to transportation were much higher in Southern neighborhoods (Location Affordability Index of 28-39% compared to 16-23% in non-Southern sites), and fewer participants lived in counties where hospitals reported providing HIV care (55% of GA, 63% of NC, and 76% of AL participants lived in a county with a hospital that provided HIV care, compared to >90% at all other sites). Finally, the states with the highest adult incarceration rates were all in the South (per 100,000 residents: AL 820, MS 788, GA 686, FL 644). Many Southern states opted not to expand Medicaid, invest little in transportation infrastructure, and have staggering rates of incarceration. Resolution of racial and geographic disparities in HIV health outcomes will require addressing these structural barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Ludema
- Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Andrew Edmonds
- UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Stephen R. Cole
- UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Adebola A. Adedimeji
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Mardge H. Cohen
- Cook County Health and Hospital System and Rush University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Seble Kassaye
- Georgetown University Department of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | | | | | - Tracey E. Wilson
- State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Medical Center School of Public Health, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Adaora A. Adimora
- UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- UNC School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Asadi H, Imani-Nasab MH, Garavand A, Hasoumi M, Kia AA, Haghi B, Setoodehzadeh F. HIV Positive Patients' Experience of Receiving Health Care Services: A Phenomenology Study in Iran. Open AIDS J 2018. [DOI: 10.2174/1874613601812010150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction:Most of the studies on HIV/AIDS health care status are usually conducted in big cities while small towns and rural areas are faced with specific challenges. This study aimed to identify the barriers and problems encountered by HIV-positive patients when receiving health services in the small cities and rural areas of Iran.Methodology:This is a qualitative study that was conducted using an interpretive phenomenology method in 2016. This study was conducted through a semi-structured interview for which a purposeful sampling method was used. In the present study, data saturation was observed after 15 interviews, but more than 17 interviews were conducted to ensure the reliability of the interview. Data were analyzed by Colaizzi's method using MAXQDA10 software.Findings:Barriers and problems encountered by patients when receiving health care services consisted of 10 categories, 32 main themes and 67 sub-themes. The categories were as follows: fear of revealing the disease, fear of confronting providers, seeking support, not visiting health care providers, inappropriate behavior of health care staff, concealing the disease, hardship endurance, financial concerns, psychological stress and pressure, and disclosure of patient information.Conclusion:Recognizing the problems of HIV-positive patients in using health care services and resolving them can help to reassure the patients about the health system. Introduction of supporting policies and regulations, appropriate public education, training health sector personnel, and provision of medical equipment and facilities would positively affect the process of solving the problems of HIV-Patients (treating HIV patients).
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Bensley KM, McGinnis KA, Fortney J, Chan KCG, Dombrowski JC, Ornelas I, Edelman EJ, Goulet JL, Satre DD, Justice AC, Fiellin DA, Williams EC. Patterns of Alcohol Use Among Patients Living With HIV in Urban, Large Rural, and Small Rural Areas. J Rural Health 2018; 35:330-340. [PMID: 30339740 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND For people living with HIV (PLWH), alcohol use is harmful and may be influenced by unique challenges faced by PLWH living in rural areas. We describe patterns of alcohol use across rurality among PLWH. METHODS Veterans Aging Cohort Study electronic health record data were used to identify patients with HIV (ICD-9 codes for HIV or AIDS) who completed AUDIT-C alcohol screening between February 1, 2008, and September 30, 2014. Regression models estimated and compared 4 alcohol use outcomes (any use [AUDIT-C > 0] and alcohol use disorder [AUD; ICD-9 codes for abuse or dependence] diagnoses among all PLWH, and AUDIT-C risk categories: lower- [1-3 men/1-2 women], moderate- [4-5 men/3-5 women], higher- 6-7]), and severe-risk [8-12], and heavy episodic drinking (HED; ≥1 past-year occasion) among PLWH reporting use) across rurality (urban, large rural, small rural) and census-defined region. FINDINGS Among 32,699 PLWH (29,540 urban, 1,301 large rural, and 1,828 small rural), both any alcohol use and AUD were highest in urban areas, although this varied across region. Predicted prevalence of any alcohol use was 54.1% (53.5%-54.7%) in urban, 49.6% (46.9%-52.3%) in large rural, and 50.6% (48.3%-52.9%) in small rural areas (P < .01). Predicted prevalence of AUD was 14.4% (14.0%-14.8%) in urban, 11.8% (10.0%-13.5%) in large rural, and 12.3% (10.8%-13.8%) in small rural areas (P < .01). Approximately 12% and 25% had higher- or severe-risk drinking and HED, respectively, but neither differed across rurality. CONCLUSION Though some variation across rurality and region was observed, alcohol-related interventions are needed for PLWH across all geographic locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara M Bensley
- VA Health Services Research & Development, Denver-Seattle Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, Washington.,University of Washington School of Public Health, Department of Health Services, Seattle, Washington.,Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, Emeryville, California
| | | | - John Fortney
- VA Health Services Research & Development, Denver-Seattle Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, Washington.,University of Washington School of Public Health, Department of Health Services, Seattle, Washington.,University of Washington School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Seattle, Washington
| | - K C Gary Chan
- University of Washington School of Public Health, Department of Health Services, Seattle, Washington.,University of Washington School of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics, Seattle, Washington
| | - Julia C Dombrowski
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Department of Medicine and Allergy & Infectious Diseases, Seattle, Washington
| | - India Ornelas
- University of Washington School of Public Health, Department of Health Services, Seattle, Washington
| | - E Jennifer Edelman
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.,Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Joseph L Goulet
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Derek D Satre
- University of California, Department of Psychiatry, San Francisco, California.,Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Division of Research, Oakland, California
| | - Amy C Justice
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - David A Fiellin
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.,Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Emily C Williams
- VA Health Services Research & Development, Denver-Seattle Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, Washington.,University of Washington School of Public Health, Department of Health Services, Seattle, Washington
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HIV Risk Behaviors and Utilization of Prevention Services, Urban and Rural Men Who Have Sex with Men in the United States: Results from a National Online Survey. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:2127-2136. [PMID: 28986669 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1912-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Rural men who have sex with men (MSM) are heavily affected by HIV, and many lack culturally competent HIV prevention resources. Rural MSM may find sexual partners on the internet, which may also be a way to deliver prevention services to them. To understand the differences between rural and urban MSM with respect to HIV risk factors and behaviors and the utilization of online HIV prevention services, we used data from the 2012 Web-Based HIV Behavioral Survey (WHBS). Using WHBS data collected between June and August 2012, we compared the characteristics of MSM with positive or unknown HIV infection status who had sex with a male in the past 12 months, from rural vs urban areas using Chi square tests and median tests. We used logistic regression and calculated adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to compare self-reported HIV risk behaviors, HIV/STI testing behaviors, use of prevention services, and perceived discrimination. Of the 8166 MSM included in our analysis, 3583 (44%) were from rural areas, and 4583 (56%) were from urban areas. Compared to urban MSM, rural MSM were less likely to ever test for HIV (aPR = 0.94, CI 0.92-0.95), to be tested for HIV in the last year (aPR = 0.83, CI 0.79-0.87), or to receive free condoms (aPR = 0.83, CI 0.79-0.86) or individual prevention counseling in the past year (aPR = 0.86, CI 0.78-0.95). Rural MSM were less likely to have been tested in the last year for syphilis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia (aPR = 0.70, CI 0.62-0.78; aPR = 0.72, CI 0.64-0.81; aPR = 0.75, CI 0.67-0.85, respectively). Rural MSM also reported perceiving less tolerance of gays and bisexuals within their community (aPR = 0.80, CI 0.77-0.84). HIV prevalence is lower among MSM in rural areas compared to MSM in urban areas, but rural MSM report that they are more likely to face intolerance and are less likely to use basic HIV prevention services compared to urban MSM. Therefore, this hard-to-reach population could benefit from prevention services offered through the internet.
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Clement ME, Collins LF, Wilder JM, Mugavero M, Barker T, Naggie S. Hepatitis C Virus Elimination in the Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Coinfected Population: Leveraging the Existing Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infrastructure. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2018; 32:407-423. [PMID: 29778263 PMCID: PMC6592269 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2018.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this review is to consider how existing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infrastructure may be leveraged to inform and improve hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment efforts in the HIV-HCV coinfected population. Current gaps in HCV care relevant to the care continuum are reviewed. Successes in HIV treatment are then applied to the HCV treatment model for coinfected patients. Finally, the authors give examples of HCV treatment strategies for coinfected patients in both domestic and international settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith E Clement
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University Medical Center, 315 Trent Drive, Hanes House, Room 181, DUMC Box 102359, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Lauren F Collins
- Department of Medicine, Emory School of Medicine, 49 Jesse Hill Drive Southeast, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Julius M Wilder
- Duke Division of Gastroenterology, Box 90120, Durham, NC 27708-0120, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, 2400 Pratt Street, Durham, NC 27705, USA
| | - Michael Mugavero
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama Birmingham, Community Care Building, 908 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Taryn Barker
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, 383 Dorchester Avenue, Boston, MA 02127, USA
| | - Susanna Naggie
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University Medical Center, 315 Trent Drive, Hanes House, Room 181, DUMC Box 102359, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, 2400 Pratt Street, Durham, NC 27705, USA.
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Johnson Q, Mund B, Joudrey PJ. Improving Rural Access to Opioid Treatment Programs. THE JOURNAL OF LAW, MEDICINE & ETHICS : A JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF LAW, MEDICINE & ETHICS 2018; 46:437-439. [PMID: 30146991 PMCID: PMC9019866 DOI: 10.1177/1073110518782951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This article explores challenges to accessing opioid treatment programs in rural areas, and offers solutions that would ease these problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quentin Johnson
- Quentin Johnson, J.D., is a 2018 graduate of Yale Law School. Brian Mund, J.D., is a 2018 graduate of Yale Law School. Paul J. Joudrey, M.D., M.P.H., teaches at Yale School of Medicine
| | - Brian Mund
- Quentin Johnson, J.D., is a 2018 graduate of Yale Law School. Brian Mund, J.D., is a 2018 graduate of Yale Law School. Paul J. Joudrey, M.D., M.P.H., teaches at Yale School of Medicine
| | - Paul J Joudrey
- Quentin Johnson, J.D., is a 2018 graduate of Yale Law School. Brian Mund, J.D., is a 2018 graduate of Yale Law School. Paul J. Joudrey, M.D., M.P.H., teaches at Yale School of Medicine
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Kalichman S, Katner H, Banas E, Kalichman M. Population Density and AIDS-Related Stigma in Large-Urban, Small-Urban, and Rural Communities of the Southeastern USA. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2018; 18:517-525. [PMID: 28190136 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-017-0761-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIDS stigmas delay HIV diagnosis, interfere with health care, and contribute to mental health problems among people living with HIV. While there are few studies of the geographical distribution of AIDS stigma, research suggests that AIDS stigmas are differentially experienced in rural and urban areas. We conducted computerized interviews with 696 men and women living with HIV in 113 different zip code areas that were classified as large-urban, small-urban, and rural areas in a southeast US state with high-HIV prevalence. Analyses conducted at the individual level (N = 696) accounting for clustering at the zip code level showed that internalized AIDS-related stigma (e.g., the sense of being inferior to others because of HIV) was experienced with greater magnitude in less densely populated communities. Multilevel models indicated that after adjusting for potential confounding factors, rural communities reported greater internalized AIDS-related stigma compared to large-urban areas and that small-urban areas indicated greater experiences of enacted stigma (e.g., discrimination) than large-urban areas. The associations between anticipated AIDS-related stigma (e.g., expecting discrimination) and population density at the community-level were not significant. Results suggest that people living in rural and small-urban settings experience greater AIDS-related internalized and enacted stigma than their counterparts living in large-urban centers. Research is needed to determine whether low-density population areas contribute to or are sought out by people who experienced greater AIDS-related stigma. Regardless of causal directions, interventions are needed to address AIDS-related stigma, especially among people in sparsely populated areas with limited resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth Kalichman
- Department of Psychology, University of Connecticut, 406 Babbidge Road, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA.
| | | | - Ellen Banas
- Mercer University Medical School, Macon, GA, USA
| | - Moira Kalichman
- Department of Psychology, University of Connecticut, 406 Babbidge Road, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
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Rieckmann T, Muench J, McBurnie MA, Leo MC, Crawford P, Ford D, Stubbs J, O'Cleirigh C, Mayer KH, Fiscella K, Wright N, Doe-Simkins M, Cuddeback M, Salisbury-Afshar E, Nelson C. Medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorders within a national community health center research network. Subst Abus 2018; 37:625-634. [PMID: 27218678 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2016.1189477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Affordable Care Act increases access to treatment services for people who suffer from substance use disorders (SUDs), including alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and opioid use disorders (OUDs). This increased access to treatment has broad implications for delivering health services and creates a dramatic need for transformation in clinical care, service lines, and collaborative care models. Medication-assisted treatments (MAT) are effective for helping SUD patients reach better outcomes. This article uses electronic health record (EHR) data to examine the prevalence of EHR-documented SUDs, patient characteristics, and patterns of MAT prescribing and screening for patients within the Community Health Applied Research Network (CHARN), a national network of 17 community health centers that facilitates patient-centered outcomes research among underserved populations. METHODS Hierarchical generalized linear models examined patient characteristics, SUD occurrence rates, MAT prescription, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis virus C screening for patients with AUDs or OUDs. Results: Among 572,582 CHARN adult patients, 16,947 (3.0%) had a documented AUD diagnosis and 6,080 (1.1%) an OUD diagnosis. Alcohol MAT prescriptions were documented for 547 AUD patients (3.2%) and opioid MAT for 1,764 OUD patients (29.0%). Among OUD patients, opioid MAT was significantly associated with HIV screening (odds ratio [OR] = 1.31, P < .001) in OUD patients, as was alcohol MAT among AUD patients (OR = 1.30, P = .013). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that effective opioid and alcohol MAT may be substantially underprescribed among safety-net patients identified as having OUDs or AUDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Traci Rieckmann
- a School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) , Portland , Oregon , USA.,b School of Public Health, Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) , Portland , Oregon , USA
| | - John Muench
- c Department of Family Medicine , Oregon Health and Science University Richmond Clinic , Portland , Oregon , USA
| | - Mary Ann McBurnie
- d Oregon Community Health Information Network (OCHIN) , Portland , Oregon , USA
| | - Michael C Leo
- e Community Health Applied Research Network (CHARN) Data Coordinating Center , Portland , Oregon , USA
| | - Phillip Crawford
- e Community Health Applied Research Network (CHARN) Data Coordinating Center , Portland , Oregon , USA
| | - Daren Ford
- b School of Public Health, Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) , Portland , Oregon , USA
| | - Jennifer Stubbs
- b School of Public Health, Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) , Portland , Oregon , USA
| | - Conall O'Cleirigh
- f Fenway Health, Harvard Medical School, and Massachusetts General Hospital , Boston , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- f Fenway Health, Harvard Medical School, and Massachusetts General Hospital , Boston , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Kevin Fiscella
- g Departments of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences , University of Rochester Medical Center , Rochester , New York , USA
| | - Nicole Wright
- h Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations , Oakland , California , USA
| | - Maya Doe-Simkins
- i Alliance of Chicago Community Health Services , Chicago , Illinois , USA
| | - Matthew Cuddeback
- i Alliance of Chicago Community Health Services , Chicago , Illinois , USA
| | | | - Christine Nelson
- d Oregon Community Health Information Network (OCHIN) , Portland , Oregon , USA
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Karamouzian M, Shoveller J, Dong H, Gilbert M, Kerr T, DeBeck K. Perceived Devaluation and STI Testing Uptake among a Cohort of Street-Involved Youth in a Canadian Setting. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2017; 46:2165-2172. [PMID: 28643100 PMCID: PMC5548595 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-017-1002-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Perceived devaluation has been shown to have adverse effects on the mental and physical health outcomes of people who use drugs. However, the impact of perceived devaluation on sexually transmitted infections (STI) testing uptake among street-involved youth, who face multiple and intersecting stigmas due to their association with drug use and risky sexual practices, has not been fully characterized. Data were obtained between December 2013 and November 2014 from a cohort of street-involved youth who use illicit drugs aged 14-26 in Vancouver, British Columbia. Multivariable generalized estimating equations were constructed to assess the independent relationship between perceived devaluation and STI testing uptake. Among 300 street-involved youth, 87.0% reported a high perceived devaluation score at baseline. In the multivariable analysis, high perceived devaluation was negatively associated with STI testing uptake after adjustment for potential confounders (Adjusted Odds Ratio = 0.38, 95% Confidence Interval 0.15-0.98). Perceived devaluation was high among street-involved youth in our sample and appears to have adverse effects on STI testing uptake. HIV prevention and care programs should be examined and improved to better meet the special needs of street-involved youth in non-stigmatizing ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Karamouzian
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616911320, Iran
| | - Jean Shoveller
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Huiru Dong
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Mark Gilbert
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
- Clinical Prevention Services, BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Kora DeBeck
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
- School of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, Suite 3271 - 515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 5K3, Canada.
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Lopes BLW, Eron JJ, Mugavero MJ, Miller WC, Napravnik S. HIV Care Initiation Delay Among Rural Residents in the Southeastern United States, 1996 to 2012. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2017; 76:171-176. [PMID: 28639994 PMCID: PMC5850947 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delaying HIV care initiation may lead to greater morbidity, mortality, and further HIV transmission. Rural residence may be associated with delayed diagnosis and linkage to care, with negative clinical outcomes. OBJECTIVE To examine the association between rural patient residence and CD4 cell count at HIV care initiation in a large HIV clinical cohort in the Southeastern United States. METHODS We included HIV-infected patients who initiated care between 1996 and 2012 with a geocodable address and no previous history of HIV clinical care. Patient residence was categorized as urban or rural using United States Department of Agriculture Rural Urban Commuting Area codes. Multivariable linear regression models were fit to estimate the association between patient residence and CD4 cell count at HIV care initiation. RESULTS Among 1396 patients who met study inclusion criteria, 988 had a geocodable address. Overall, 35% of patients resided in rural areas and presented to HIV care with a mean CD4 cell count of 351 cells/mm (SD, 290). Care initiation mean CD4 cell counts increased from 329 cells/mm (SD, 283) in 1996-2003 to 391 cells/mm (SD, 292) in 2008-2012 (P = 0.006). Rural in comparison with urban patients presented with lower CD4 cell counts with an unadjusted and adjusted mean difference of -48 cells/mm [95% confidence interval, -86 to -10) and -37 cells/mm (95% confidence interval: -73 to -2), respectively, consistently observed across calendar years. CONCLUSIONS HIV care initiation at low CD4 cell counts was common in this Southeastern US cohort and more common among rural area residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brettania L W Lopes
- *Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC; †Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC; ‡Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL; and §Department of Epidemiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
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Bosh KA, Shi J, Chen M. Survival After HIV Infection Stage 3 (AIDS) Diagnosis, by Population Density Areas, United States, 2005-2010. Public Health Rep 2017; 132:570-578. [PMID: 28800284 DOI: 10.1177/0033354917722143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We examined the survival rates after diagnosis of HIV infection stage 3 (AIDS) in the United States by population density area of residence at diagnosis. METHODS We used data from the National HIV Surveillance System to calculate survival rates among people aged ≥13 with HIV infection stage 3 (AIDS) diagnosed from 2005 through 2010. We determined survival rates for more than 12, 24, and 36 months after diagnosis; overall and by demographic characteristics; and across 3 population density area categories (large metropolitan statistical areas [MSAs, ≥500 000 people], small-to-medium MSAs [50 000 to 499 999 people], and nonmetropolitan areas [<50 000 people]). RESULTS The survival rates for more than 12, 24, and 36 months after diagnosis were highest among people residing in large MSAs (90.2%, 87.2%, and 84.9%, respectively) and lowest among people residing in nonmetropolitan areas (87.3%, 84.1%, and 81.4%, respectively). With a few exceptions, survival rates were lower in those residing in nonmetropolitan areas than those residing in large MSAs and small-to-medium MSAs across most subgroups by age at diagnosis, race/ethnicity, sex, transmission category, region of residence, and year of diagnosis. Between 2005 and 2010, significant year-to-year increases occurred in the proportion of people surviving more than 36 months after diagnosis across all 3 population density area categories (estimated annual percentage change: large MSAs [0.88; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.56-1.20]; small-to-medium MSAs [0.94; 95% CI, 0.06-1.83]; and nonmetropolitan areas [1.26; 95% CI, 0.07-2.46]). CONCLUSIONS Although survival rates for those with HIV infection stage 3 (AIDS) improved in all 3 population density area categories, efforts to remove barriers to care and promote treatment adherence in nonmetropolitan areas will be necessary to eliminate survival disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin A Bosh
- 1 Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Mi Chen
- 1 Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Hubach RD, Currin JM, Sanders CA, Durham AR, Kavanaugh KE, Wheeler DL, Croff JM. Barriers to Access and Adoption of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis for the Prevention of HIV Among Men Who Have Sex With Men (MSM) in a Relatively Rural State. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2017; 29:315-329. [PMID: 28825858 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2017.29.4.315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Biomedical intervention approaches, including antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), have been demonstrated to reduce HIV incidence among several at-risk populations and to be cost effective. However, there is limited understanding of PrEP access and uptake among men who have sex with men (MSM) residing in relatively rural states. Twenty semistructured interviews were conducted (August-November 2016) to assess opinions of and perceived barriers to accessing and adopting PrEP among MSM residing in Oklahoma. Participants perceived substantial barriers to accessing PrEP including a stigmatizing environment and less access to quality, LGBT-sensitive medical care. Overall, geographic isolation limits access to health providers and resources that support sexual health for Oklahoma MSM. Addressing stigma situated across ecological levels in an effort to increase adoption of PrEP by MSM residing in rural states remains necessary. Without this, social determinants may continue to negatively influence PrEP adoption and sexual health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randolph D Hubach
- School of Community Health Sciences, Counseling, and Counseling Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - Joseph M Currin
- School of Community Health Sciences, Counseling, and Counseling Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - Carissa A Sanders
- School of Community Health Sciences, Counseling, and Counseling Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - André R Durham
- School of Educational Foundations, Leadership, and Aviation, Oklahoma State University
| | - Katherine E Kavanaugh
- School of Community Health Sciences, Counseling, and Counseling Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - Denna L Wheeler
- Center for Rural Health, Center for Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Tulsa, Oklahoma
| | - Julie M Croff
- School of Community Health Sciences, Counseling, and Counseling Psychology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
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Hansoti B, Hill SE, Whalen M, Stead D, Parrish A, Rothman R, Hsieh YH, Quinn TC. Patient and provider attitudes to emergency department-based HIV counselling and testing in South Africa. South Afr J HIV Med 2017; 18:707. [PMID: 29568634 PMCID: PMC5843014 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v18i1.707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The national South African HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) guidelines mandate that voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) should be offered in all healthcare facilities. Emergency departments (EDs) are at the forefront of many healthcare facilities, yet VCT is not routinely implemented in this setting. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study that surveyed patients and healthcare providers at a tertiary care ED in the spring and summer of 2016 to ascertain their attitudes to VCT in the ED. We also used two previously validated survey instruments to gather data on patients’ HIV knowledge and providers’ stigma against patients living with HIV, as we anticipated that these may have an impact on providers’ and patients’ attitudes to the provision of HIV testing within the ED, and may offer insights for future intervention development. Results A total of 104 patients and 26 providers were enrolled in the study. Overall, patients responded more favourably to ED-based HIV testing (92.3%) compared to providers (only 40% responded favourably). When asked about potential barriers to receiving or providing HIV testing, 16.4% of patients and 24% of providers felt that the subject of HIV was too sensitive and 58.7% of patients and 80% of providers indicated that privacy and confidentiality issues would pose major barriers to implementing ED-based HIV testing. Conclusion This study shows that while ED-based HIV testing is overall highly acceptable to patients, providers seem less willing to provide this service. The survey data also suggest that future development of ED-based testing strategies should take into consideration privacy and confidentiality concerns that may arise within a busy emergency care setting. Furthermore, every effort should be made to tackle HIV stigma among providers to improve overall attitudes towards HIV-positive individuals that present for care in the ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhakti Hansoti
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, United States
| | - Sarah E Hill
- Kriegler School of Arts and Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, United States
| | - Madeleine Whalen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, United States
| | - David Stead
- Department of Internal Medicine, Frere Hospital, South Africa.,Department of Medicine, Walter Sisulu University, South Africa
| | - Andy Parrish
- Department of Internal Medicine, Frere Hospital, South Africa.,Department of Medicine, Walter Sisulu University, South Africa
| | - Richard Rothman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, United States
| | - Yu-Hsiang Hsieh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, United States
| | - Thomas C Quinn
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, United States.,Division of Intramural Research, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, United States
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MacKenzie LJ, Hull MW, Samji H, Lima VD, Yip B, Zhang W, Lourenço L, Colley G, Hogg RS, Montaner JSG. Is there a rural/urban gap in the quality of HIV care for treatment-naïve HIV-positive individuals initiating antiretroviral therapy in British Columbia? AIDS Care 2017; 29:1218-1226. [PMID: 28472896 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2017.1322678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Rurally located people living with HIV (PLWH) face unique challenges associated with remoteness that may negatively affect their HIV care outcomes. The Programmatic Compliance Score (PCS) has been used previously as a quality of care metric, and is predictive of mortality for treatment-naïve individuals initiating combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). This study looked at whether the rurality of PLWH impacted their PCS. PCS was calculated for PLWH (≥19 years old) initiating cART in British Columbia between 2000 and 2013. Rurality was determined at the time of cART initiation using two methodologies: (1) a categorical postal code method; and (2) the General Practice Rurality Index (GPRI), a score representing an individual's degree of rurality. Ordinal logistic regression modeling was used to assess the relationship between rurality and PCS. Among 4616 PLWH with an evaluable PCS, 176 were classified as rural and 3512 as urban (928 had an unknown postal code). After adjusting for age, sex, hepatitis C status, Indigenous ancestry, and year of cART initiation, categorical rurality was not associated with a worse PCS (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.04; 95% CI: 0.77-1.39). However, an increasing degree of rurality was associated with a worse PCS (AOR (per 10 increase in GPRI) 1.13; 95% CI: 1.06-1.20). Given that a poor PCS has been shown to be predictive of all-cause mortality for individuals initiating cART, strategies to improve access to HIV care for rural individuals should be evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren J MacKenzie
- a BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS , Vancouver , BC , Canada.,b CIHR Canadian HIV Trials Network , Vancouver , BC , Canada.,c Clinician Investigator Program , University of Manitoba , Winnipeg , MB , Canada.,d School of Population and Public Health , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , BC , Canada
| | - Mark W Hull
- a BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS , Vancouver , BC , Canada.,e Department of Medicine , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , BC , Canada
| | - Hasina Samji
- a BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS , Vancouver , BC , Canada
| | - Viviane D Lima
- a BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS , Vancouver , BC , Canada.,e Department of Medicine , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , BC , Canada
| | - Benita Yip
- a BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS , Vancouver , BC , Canada
| | - Wendy Zhang
- a BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS , Vancouver , BC , Canada
| | - Lillian Lourenço
- a BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS , Vancouver , BC , Canada
| | - Guillaume Colley
- a BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS , Vancouver , BC , Canada
| | - Robert S Hogg
- a BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS , Vancouver , BC , Canada.,f Faculty of Health Sciences , Simon Fraser University , Burnaby , BC , Canada
| | - Julio S G Montaner
- a BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS , Vancouver , BC , Canada.,e Department of Medicine , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , BC , Canada
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Schafer KR, Albrecht H, Dillingham R, Hogg RS, Jaworsky D, Kasper K, Loutfy M, MacKenzie LJ, McManus KA, Oursler KAK, Rhodes SD, Samji H, Skinner S, Sun CJ, Weissman S, Ohl ME. The Continuum of HIV Care in Rural Communities in the United States and Canada: What Is Known and Future Research Directions. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2017; 75:35-44. [PMID: 28225437 PMCID: PMC6169533 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The nature of the HIV epidemic in the United States and Canada has changed with a shift toward rural areas. Socioeconomic factors, geography, cultural context, and evolving epidemics of injection drug use are coalescing to move the epidemic into locations where populations are dispersed and health care resources are limited. Rural-urban differences along the care continuum demonstrate the implications of this sociogeographic shift. Greater attention is needed to build a more comprehensive understanding of the rural HIV epidemic in the United States and Canada, including research efforts, innovative approaches to care delivery, and greater community engagement in prevention and care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine R Schafer
- *Section on Infectious Diseases, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, NC; †Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of South Carolina School of Medicine; ‡Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA; §Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada; ‖BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada; ¶Clinician Investigator Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; #Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; **Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; ††CIHR Canadian HIV Trials Network, Vancouver, BC, Canada; ‡‡Clinician Investigator Program, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; §§Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA; ‖‖Salem Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Salem, VA; ¶¶Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC; ##British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada; ***University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada; and †††Oregon Health & Science University-Portland State University School of Public Health, Portland, OR
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Hill M, Huff A, Chumbler N. Variation in Networks and Forms of Support for Care-Seeking Across the HIV Care Continuum in the Rural Southeastern United States. J Rural Health 2017; 34:71-79. [PMID: 28295611 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Revised: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In spite of progress in understanding the importance of social support for health outcomes in Persons Living with HIV (PLWH), more remains to be known about mechanisms of support most beneficial at each stage of HIV treatment. In this study, we use a qualitative analytic approach to investigate the forms and sources of social support deemed most integral to the diagnosis, care engagement, and medication adherence behaviors of a diverse sample of PLWH in a mostly rural health district in the Southeastern United States. METHODS In-depth interviews (N = 18) were collected during the qualitative phase of a larger mixed methods needs assessment for the Northeast Georgia Health District. A deductive-inductive analysis of participant narratives revealed variation in the perceived importance of particular forms and sources of social support during the initial versus advanced stages of HIV care. FINDINGS PLWH identified the emotional, informational, and appraisal support provided by family as especially critical for emotional stability, coping, and care linkage during the initial stages of diagnosis and treatment. However, once in care, PLWH emphasized informational and instrumental forms of support from care providers and appraisal support from peers as key influences in care engagement and retention behaviors. CONCLUSION Increased understanding of the social support mechanisms that contribute to the HIV treatment behaviors of PLWH can fill knowledge gaps in research and inform the efforts of health care providers seeking to leverage various aspects of the social support toward improving the care retention, health, and wellness outcomes of PLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Hill
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavior, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Amber Huff
- Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton, East Sussex, United Kingdom
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Albritton T, Martinez I, Gibson C, Angley M, Grandelski VR. What about Us? Economic and Policy Changes Affecting Rural HIV/AIDS Services and Care. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 32:273-289. [PMID: 28276893 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2017.1282388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Health care budgets and policies are chief drivers in the delivery and access to health services. Place is also a factor that affects patient and provider experiences within the health care system. We examine the impact of policy changes and subsequent budget cuts on rural HIV/AIDS care, support services, and prevention. We interviewed 11 social workers, case managers, and outreach workers who serve rural people living with HIV/AIDS. We conducted telephone interviews inquiring about the effect of economics and policies on direct practice with rural clients. We analyzed data using a content analysis approach. We found several themes from the data. Ryan White funding and policy changes shifted direct practice to a medical case management model. Changes in federal and state poverty levels affected client eligibility for the AIDS Drugs Assistance Program. Policy banning financial support for syringe service programs hindered prevention efforts to reduce HIV/AIDS transmission. Ancillary services were reduced, such as housing assistance, transportation, and emergency financial assistance. In conclusion, we highlight the importance of place-based policies to improve access to healthcare and services. We also provide recommendations for greater inclusion in HIV/AIDS-related policy development, care, and service planning for rural workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tashuna Albritton
- a Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, CUNY School of Medicine, City College of New York , New York , New York , USA
| | - Isabel Martinez
- b Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences , Harvard University , Cambridge , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Crystal Gibson
- c Wisconsin Department of Health Services , Madison , Wisconsin , USA
| | - Meghan Angley
- d Epidemiology, Emory University , Atlanta , Georgia , USA
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Griffith DC, Agwu AL. Caring for youth living with HIV across the continuum: turning gaps into opportunities. AIDS Care 2017; 29:1205-1211. [PMID: 28278569 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2017.1290211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
With the increasing proportion of youth living with human immunodeficiency virus (YLHIV) and the aging of the perinatally infected population, there is a need for clinical services that are "youth friendly" to address the multiple challenges YLHIV face in terms of engagement in care and maintenance of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). Little is known about how and where YLHIV receive their care. Further, the impact of the care structure on engagement and retention outcomes for YLHIV is ill defined. In order to better classify how YLHIV receive care in the United States, we performed a review of published literature characterizing the structure and outcomes of care for YLHIV. Several key concepts emerged: 1. The majority of YLHIV (13-24 years old) are cared for at adult sites, 2. Clinics providing care to YLHIV are varied in terms of the services offered and the types of services offered can impact outcomes, 3. YLHIV cared for in adult clinical sites have poor retention and antiretroviral treatment initiation, and 4. YLHIV cared for at adult sites had poorer retention and cART outcomes compared to YLHIV cared for at pediatric sites. There were no studies identified that specifically examined "youth friendly" care for YLHIV within the context of adult clinical sites. The results of this review highlight disparities for YLHIV and the need for interventions to improve outcomes for YLHIV in the context of adult care.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Griffith
- a Department of Pediatrics , Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , Baltimore , USA.,b Department of Medicine , Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , Baltimore , USA
| | - Allison L Agwu
- a Department of Pediatrics , Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , Baltimore , USA.,b Department of Medicine , Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , Baltimore , USA
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50
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Keith Branham D, Borders TF, Stewart KE, Curran GM, Booth BM. Acceptability of HIV Testing Sites Among Rural and Urban African Americans Who Use Cocaine. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:576-586. [PMID: 27557985 PMCID: PMC5290213 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1527-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
African Americans (AAs) who use cocaine in the Southern region of the U.S. have a relatively high risk of HIV and need for HIV testing. Among this group, those residing in rural areas may have less favorable opinions about common HIV testing sites, which could inhibit HIV testing. We examined rural/urban variations in their acceptability of multiple HIV testing sites (private physician clinic, local health department, community health center, community HIV fair, hospital emergency department, blood plasma donation center, drug abuse treatment facility, and mobile van or community outreach worker). Results from partial proportional odds and logistic regression analyses indicate that rural AA who use cocaine have lower odds of viewing local health departments (OR = 0.09, 95 % CI = 0.03-0.21), physician offices (OR = 0.19, 95 % CI = 0.09-0.42), and drug use treatment centers (OR = 0.49; 95 % CI = 0.30-0.80) as acceptable relative to their urban counterparts. The findings have implications for further targeting HIV testing toward AAs who use of cocaine, particularly those residing in the rural South.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Keith Branham
- Department of Health Management and Policy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA.
| | - Tyrone F Borders
- Department of Health Management and Policy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Katharine E Stewart
- Department of Psychology and Provost's Office, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Geoffrey M Curran
- Departments of Pharmacy Practice and Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Brenda M Booth
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
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