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Vermandere H, Martínez-Silva G, Aguilera-Mijares S, Martínez-Dávalos A, Bautista-Arredondo S. Evaluating the Screening and Enrollment of People at Risk of HIV in Mexico's Preexposure Prophylaxis Demonstration Project, 2018-2020. Public Health Rep 2024; 139:606-614. [PMID: 38491784 PMCID: PMC11344982 DOI: 10.1177/00333549241230479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Screening tools in which participants self-report sexual behaviors can identify people at risk of HIV acquisition for enrollment in preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We compared enrollment outcomes (ie, receiving PrEP vs being excluded by a counselor or declining PrEP) in Mexico's PrEP demonstration project and evaluated the validity of a 4-criteria PrEP eligibility tool in which participants self-reported risk behavior-having condomless anal sex, transactional sex, a partner living with HIV, or a sexually transmitted infection-as compared with PrEP eligibility assessed by a counselor. METHODS We recruited men who have sex with men and transwomen who were offered PrEP services in Mexico. We characterized participants according to enrollment outcome and identified underlying factors through logistic regression analyses. We calculated the sensitivity and specificity of the self-reported risk criteria, using the counselor's risk assessment as the point of reference. RESULTS Of 2460 participants, 2323 (94%) had risk criteria of HIV acquisition according to the 4-criteria tool; 1701 (73%) received PrEP, 247 (11%) were excluded by a counselor, and 351 (15%) declined PrEP despite being considered eligible by the counselor. Participants who were excluded or who declined PrEP were less likely to report HIV risk behaviors than those who received PrEP, and participants who declined PrEP were more likely to be transwomen (vs men who have sex with men) and aged ≤25 years (vs >25 y). The 4-criteria risk tool had high sensitivity (98.6%) and low specificity (29.8%). CONCLUSION The screening tool identified most participants at risk of HIV acquisition, but counselors' assessment helped refine the decision for enrollment in PrEP by excluding those with low risk. Public health strategies are needed to enhance enrollment in PrEP among some groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heleen Vermandere
- Center for Evaluation Research and Surveys, National Institute of Public Health of Mexico, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Gisela Martínez-Silva
- Center for Evaluation Research and Surveys, National Institute of Public Health of Mexico, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Santiago Aguilera-Mijares
- Center for Evaluation Research and Surveys, National Institute of Public Health of Mexico, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Araczy Martínez-Dávalos
- Center for Evaluation Research and Surveys, National Institute of Public Health of Mexico, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Sergio Bautista-Arredondo
- Center for Evaluation Research and Surveys, National Institute of Public Health of Mexico, Cuernavaca, México
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Rael CT, Das D, Porter J, Lopez-Ríos J, Abascal E, Dolezal C, Vaughn MP, Giffenig P, Lopez JM, Stonbraker S, Sun C, Velasco RA, Bitterfeld L, Bockting WO, Bauermeister J. Provider Factors Likely to Impact Access and Uptake of Long-Acting Injectable Cabotegravir for Transgender Women in the United States: Results of a Qualitative Study. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2024; 35:437-449. [PMID: 39137316 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Long-acting injectable cabotegravir (CAB-LA) was US Food and Drug Administration-approved in 2021. However, little is known about providers' CAB-LA knowledge, attitudes, challenges, and prescribing preferences for transgender women patients. Understanding this is critical to developing new pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) interventions tailored to transgender women. We conducted 45-min, in-depth Zoom interviews (IDIs) with United States-based health care providers who prescribe PrEP to transgender women. IDIs focused on providers' CAB-LA knowledge/acceptability, willingness to prescribe CAB-LA to transgender women, potential challenges, and solutions to mitigate challenges. Providers ( N = 17) had a mean age of 43 years, and 35.4% ( n = 6) identified as people of color. Most ( n = 12) had basic knowledge of CAB-LA but wanted additional training. All participants found CAB-LA acceptable and were willing to prescribe. Most ( n = 11) anticipated minimal challenges to implementation. Others ( n = 4) reported potential issues, including logistical/scheduling concerns that impede CAB-LA integration and staffing concerns. Many providers expressed support for self-injection ( n = 13) and injections at "drop-in" clinics ( n = 8) to overcome challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Tagliaferri Rael
- Christine Tagliaferri Rael, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the University of Colorado College of Nursing, Aurora, Colorado, USA. Doyel Das, BS, is an MPH Student in the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA. Jonathan Porter, MPH, was an MPH Student in the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA, and a Professional Research Assistant in the University of Colorado College of Nursing, Aurora, Colorado, USA. He is currently a Research Consultant, Optem Serve Consulting/The Lewin Group, New York, New York, USA. Javier Lopez-Ríos, PhD, MPH is an Assistant Professor in the Dornsife School of Public Health at Drexel University, Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA. Elena Abascal, DNP, NP, was a DNP student at the Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, New York, USA, and a Clinical Research Nurse at the New York State Psychiatric Institute (NYSPI), New York, New York, USA. She is currently a Nurse Practitioner, Columbia University Irving Medical Center/New York Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, New York, New York, USA. Curtis Dolezal, PhD is an Assistant Clinical Professor in the HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies at New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia University Psychiatry, New York, New York, USA. Michael P. Vaughn, PhD, MPH was a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies at New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia University Psychiatry, New York, New York, USA. He is currently the Research Operations Lead (Experience Design), Capital One Bank, New York, New York, USA. Pilar Giffenig, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, was a DNP student at the Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, New York, USA, and a Clinical Research Nurse at the New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA. She is currently a Nurse Practitioner, RemoteFocus, New York, New York, USA. Jasmine M. Lopez, BS, is a Research Assistant in the HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies at NYSPI/Columbia University Psychiatry, New York, New York, USA. Samantha Stonbraker, PhD, MPH, RN, is an Assistant Professor in the University of Colorado College of Nursing, Aurora, Colorado, USA. Christina Sun, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the University of Colorado Collee of Nursing, Aurora, Colorado, USA. Roque Anthony Velasco, MS, NP, is a PhD Student in the University of Colorado College of Nursing, Aurora, Colorado, USA. Leandra Bitterfeld, RN, is a PhD Student in the University of Colorado College of Nursing, Aurora, CO, USA. Walter O. Bockting, PhD, is a Professor and Co-Chief of the Gender Health and Sexuality Area at New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia University, New York, New York, USA, and a Professor in the Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, New York, USA. Jose Bauermeister, PhD, MPH, FSBM, is a Professor in the School of Nursing and School of Medicine and the Albert M Greenfield University Professor of Human Relations at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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3
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White DAE, Godoy A, Jewett M, Burns M, Pinto CM, Packel LJ, Garcia-Chinn M, Anderson ES, McCoy SI. Outcomes of an Emergency Department Program to Identify and Link Patients at Increased Risk for Acquiring HIV Infection to Outpatient HIV Prevention Services: The HIV PreventED Program. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 96:147-155. [PMID: 38771753 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency departments (EDs) provide care to patients at increased risk for acquiring HIV, and for many of them, the ED serves as their sole point of entry into the healthcare system. We implemented the HIV PreventED Program to increase access to HIV prevention services for ED patients. SETTING ED in Oakland, CA with an annual census of 57,000 visits. METHODS This cross-sectional study evaluated the first 9 months of the HIV PreventED Program. In this program, a navigator surveyed adult ED patients who tested HIV negative to determine their risk for acquiring HIV infection, incorporating HIV prevention counseling into their assessments. Patients at higher risk for acquiring HIV were referred to outpatient prevention services, if interested. The primary outcome measure was the number and proportion of ED patients at higher risk for acquiring HIV who followed up for outpatient prevention services. RESULTS In this study, 1233 patients who tested HIV negative were assessed by the navigator and received ED-based HIV prevention counseling. Of these, 193 (15.7%) were identified at higher risk and offered an outpatient referral for prevention services, of which 104 accepted (53.9%), 23 (11.9%) attended the referral, and 13 (6.7%) were prescribed preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP). The median time to linkage was 28 days (interquartile range 15-41 days). CONCLUSION A navigator focused on providing ED-based HIV prevention counseling and linkage to outpatient services is feasible. Strategies to more efficiently identify ED patients at higher risk for HIV acquisition, such as automated identification of risk data from the electronic health record, and policies to improve follow-up and the receipt of PrEP, such as same-day PrEP initiation, should be prospectively evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A E White
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Alameda Health System-Highland Hospital, Oakland, CA; and
| | - Ashley Godoy
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Alameda Health System-Highland Hospital, Oakland, CA; and
| | - Montana Jewett
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Alameda Health System-Highland Hospital, Oakland, CA; and
| | - Molly Burns
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Alameda Health System-Highland Hospital, Oakland, CA; and
| | - Cinthya Mujica Pinto
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Alameda Health System-Highland Hospital, Oakland, CA; and
| | - Laura J Packel
- School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Maria Garcia-Chinn
- School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Erik S Anderson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Alameda Health System-Highland Hospital, Oakland, CA; and
| | - Sandra I McCoy
- School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
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Jackson KJ, Chitle P, McCoy SI, White DAE. A Systematic Review of HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Implementation in U.S. Emergency Departments: Patient Screening, Prescribing, and Linkage to Care. J Community Health 2024; 49:499-513. [PMID: 38127296 PMCID: PMC10981603 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-023-01320-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
In the pursuit of ending the HIV epidemic, U.S. emergency departments (EDs) have emerged as a valuable setting to increase HIV testing and linkage to care. There is limited data available, however, describing the incorporation of HIV prevention initiatives in U.S. EDs. Over the last decade, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has significantly changed the HIV prevention landscape globally and very little is known about the provision of PrEP in U.S. EDs. To address this gap in the literature, we conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed quantitative studies and conference abstracts spanning July 2012 - October 2022. Of 433 citations, 11 articles and 13 abstracts meet our inclusion criteria, representing 18 unique studies addressing PrEP screening, prescribing, and/or linkage to PrEP care.Most studies describe screening processes to identify PrEP-eligible patients (n = 17); most studies leveraged a patient's STI history as initial PrEP eligibility screening criteria. Fewer studies describe PrEP prescribing (n = 2) and/or linkage to PrEP care (n = 8).Findings from this systematic review highlight the potential for U.S. EDs to increase PrEP uptake among individuals at risk for HIV infection. Despite a growing number of studies exploring processes for incorporating PrEP into the ED setting, such studies are small-scale and time limited. Models providing prescribing PrEP in the ED show higher initiation rates than post-discharge engagement models. Electronic health record (EHR)-based HIV screening is valuable, but post-ED linkage rates are low. Our findings emphasize the need to establish best practices for initiating and supporting prevention effective PrEP use in the ED setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristopher J Jackson
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street - 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA.
| | - Pooja Chitle
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Sandra I McCoy
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
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Patel VV, Andrade E, Zimba R, Mirzayi C, Zhang C, Kharfen M, Edelstein Z, Freeman A, Doshi R, Nash D, Grov C. Preference heterogeneity for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis care among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men in the United States: a large discrete choice experiment. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.05.30.24308102. [PMID: 38854084 PMCID: PMC11160849 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.30.24308102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Background PrEP uptake among Black and Latino gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) remains low in the United States. The design and implementation of PrEP delivery programs that incorporate the preferences of Black and Latino GBM may overcome barriers to uptake. We aimed to identify preferences for PrEP care among high-priority GBM in the U.S. with a large discrete choice experiment. Methods We conducted two discreet choice experiments (DCE) to elicit care preferences for (1) Starting PrEP and (2) Continuing PrEP care among GBM clinically indicated for PrEP. The DCE web-based survey was nested in a longitudinal cohort study of GBM in the U.S., implemented with video and audio directions among 16-49 year-old participants, not using PrEP, and verified to be HIV-negative. All participants were presented with 16 choice sets, with choices determined by BLGBM and PrEP implementation stakeholders. We calculated overall utility scores and relative importance and used latent class analyses (LCA) to identify classes within the Starting and Continuing PrEP DCE. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify factors associated with class membership. Findings Among 1514 participants, mean age was 32 years; 46·5% identified as Latino, 21·4% Black, and 25·2 White; 37·5% had an income less than USD $20,000. Two latent classes were identified for Starting PrEP: Class 1 (n=431 [28·5%]) was driven by preference for more traditional in-person care, and Class 2 (n=1083 [71·5%]) preferred flexible care options and on-demand PrEP. In a multivariable model, having a sexual health doctor (adjusted OR 0·7, CI 0·5, 0·9), having a primary care provider (OR 0·7,CI 0·5, 0·9, p= 0·023), and concerns over PrEP side effects (OR 1·1, CI 1·0,1·2, p= 0·003) were all associated with class membership. Interpretation The different preferences identified for PrEP care indicate the need for diverse care and formulation choices to improve PrEP uptake and persistence. Addressing these preferences and understanding the factors that shape them can inform the implementation of programs that increase PrEP uptake.
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White DAE, Solnick RE. Communicable Disease Screening and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Prevention in the Emergency Department. Emerg Med Clin North Am 2024; 42:369-389. [PMID: 38641395 DOI: 10.1016/j.emc.2024.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Emergency departments (ED) provide care to populations with high rates of communicable diseases, like HIV, hepatitis C virus, and syphilis. For many patients, the ED is their sole entry point into the healthcare system and they do not routinely access screening and prevention services elsewhere. As such, the ED can serve an important public health role through communicable disease identification, treatment, and prevention. In this article, we examine national recommendations, peer-reviewed literature, and expert consensus to provide cutting edge strategies for implementing communicable infectious disease screening and prevention programs into routine ED care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A E White
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Alameda Health System, Wilma Chan Highland Hospital, 1411 East 31st Street, Oakland, CA 94602, USA.
| | - Rachel E Solnick
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, 555 West 57th Street 5-25, New York, NY 10019, USA
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7
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Rutstein SE, Muessig KE. Leveling Up PrEP: Implementation Strategies at System and Structural Levels to Expand PrEP Use in the United States. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2024; 21:52-61. [PMID: 38517670 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-024-00697-x] [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: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Despite highly effective biomedical HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) options, suboptimal PrEP uptake impedes progress towards ending the epidemic in the United States of America (USA). Implementation science bridges what we know works in controlled clinical trial settings to the context and environment in which efficacious tools are intended to be deployed. In this review, we focus on strategies that target PrEP use barriers at the system or structural level, exploring the implications and opportunities in the context of the fragmented USA healthcare system. RECENT FINDINGS Task shifting could increase PrEP prescribers, but effectiveness evidence is scarce in the USA, and generally focused in urban settings. Integration of PrEP within existing healthcare infrastructure concentrates related resources, but demonstration projects rarely present the resource implications of redirecting staff. Changing the site of service via expanded telehealth could improve access to more rural populations, though internet connectivity, technology access, and challenges associated with determining biomedical eligibility remain logistical barriers for some of the highest burden communities in the USA. Finally, a tailored care navigation and coordination approach has emerged as a highly effective component of PrEP service provision, attempting to directly modify the system-level determinants of PrEP use experienced by the individual. We highlight recent advances and evidence surrounding task shifting, integration, service delivery, and tailoring. With the exception of tailored care navigation, evidence is mixed, and the downstream impact and sustainability of task shifting and care integration require further attention. To maximize PrEP outcomes, research will need to continue to examine the interplay between individuals, clinics, and the healthcare system and associated policies within which they operate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Rutstein
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina, 130 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Kathryn E Muessig
- Institute On Digital Health and Innovation, College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, USA
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Rowan SE, Wyles DL. Don't Put Off Until Tomorrow What You Can Do Today: Hospital Admissions as an Opportunity to Treat Hepatitis C. Clin Infect Dis 2024; 78:591-593. [PMID: 37991385 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Rowan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Denver Health Medical Center and University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado, USA
- Public Health Institute at Denver Health, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - David L Wyles
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Denver Health Medical Center and University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado, USA
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9
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Mody A, Sohn AH, Iwuji C, Tan RKJ, Venter F, Geng EH. HIV epidemiology, prevention, treatment, and implementation strategies for public health. Lancet 2024; 403:471-492. [PMID: 38043552 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)01381-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The global HIV response has made tremendous progress but is entering a new phase with additional challenges. Scientific innovations have led to multiple safe, effective, and durable options for treatment and prevention, and long-acting formulations for 2-monthly and 6-monthly dosing are becoming available with even longer dosing intervals possible on the horizon. The scientific agenda for HIV cure and remission strategies is moving forward but faces uncertain thresholds for success and acceptability. Nonetheless, innovations in prevention and treatment have often failed to reach large segments of the global population (eg, key and marginalised populations), and these major disparities in access and uptake at multiple levels have caused progress to fall short of their potential to affect public health. Moving forward, sharper epidemiologic tools based on longitudinal, person-centred data are needed to more accurately characterise remaining gaps and guide continued progress against the HIV epidemic. We should also increase prioritisation of strategies that address socio-behavioural challenges and can lead to effective and equitable implementation of existing interventions with high levels of quality that better match individual needs. We review HIV epidemiologic trends; advances in HIV prevention, treatment, and care delivery; and discuss emerging challenges for ending the HIV epidemic over the next decade that are relevant for general practitioners and others involved in HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaloke Mody
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Annette H Sohn
- TREAT Asia, amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Collins Iwuji
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK; Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Rayner K J Tan
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, China; Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Francois Venter
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Elvin H Geng
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Bonett S, Mahajan A, da Silva DT, Williams J, Brady K, Bauermeister J, Wood SM. Advancing the community plan to end the HIV Epidemic in Philadelphia: a qualitative descriptive evaluation of low-threshold PrEP services in sexual health clinics. Implement Sci Commun 2024; 5:4. [PMID: 38183133 PMCID: PMC10768374 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-023-00543-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective HIV prevention method and a key component of Philadelphia's Community Plan to End the HIV Epidemic (EHE). However, significant barriers to accessing PrEP exist among people at risk for HIV. Low-threshold models for PrEP services that minimize barriers to entry and service engagement could help bolster access to PrEP through community-based clinics. This study aimed to describe the initial implementation of low-threshold PrEP services in three sexual health clinics funded by the Philadelphia Department of Public Health and explore strategies for delivering low-threshold PrEP services. METHODS We conducted three focus groups with staff (i.e., providers, prevention navigators, and administrative staff, N = 21) at each of three participating PDPH-funded sexual health clinics from November 2021 to January 2022. Discussion topics included details about the PrEP delivery process, clinic strengths and assets, resource gaps, and PrEP implementation goals. Follow-up interviews with staff members (N = 8) between March 2022 and May 2022 focused on identifying successful strategies for PrEP delivery and adaptations needed to optimize low-threshold PrEP service delivery. Rapid qualitative methods and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Science were used to analyze data from focus groups and interviews. RESULTS Participants collaborated to create process maps that visualized the steps involved in delivering PrEP services within their respective settings. These maps highlighted several stages in PrEP service delivery, such as connecting individuals to services, providing prevention navigation, conducting clinical encounters, and ensuring follow-up care. Participants described effective strategies for implementing PrEP, which included integrating and co-locating services on-site, strengthening staffing resources and capacity, and addressing barriers experienced by clients. CONCLUSIONS Lessons from the implementation of low-threshold PrEP service delivery in Philadelphia can guide ongoing local adaptations and future scale-up of these models to improve access to PrEP and advance the goals of the EHE initiative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Bonett
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Kathleen Brady
- Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - José Bauermeister
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sarah M Wood
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Craig Dalsimer Division of Adolescent Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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11
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Lovett A, Luder R, Lillis RA, Butler I, Siren J, Gomez S, Kamis K, Obafemi O, Rowan SE, Baral S, Clement ME. Client Perspectives on the Development of a Rapid PrEP Initiative at a Sexual Health Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2024; 23:23259582241258559. [PMID: 38839254 PMCID: PMC11155369 DOI: 10.1177/23259582241258559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Uptake of PrEP remains suboptimal, especially in the Southern United States. Same-day or "Rapid PrEP Initiatives" (RPIs) in sexual health centers (SHCs) could facilitate access and overcome barriers to PrEP. We studied the adaptation of an RPI from Denver, Colorado to an SHC in New Orleans, Louisiana. Through focus group discussions (FGDs) with local SHC staff and PrEP providers, we developed a preliminary RPI model. In 5 FGDs with SHC clients referred for or taking PrEP, we gathered adaptation recommendations and feedback on model acceptability, feasibility, and utility. Providers and clients voiced unanimous support for the RPI. Clients favored the ease of same-day PrEP initiation and emphasized a desire for navigational support, financial counseling, and integration of PrEP care with their other clinical needs. Clients recommended that SHC providers discuss PrEP and HIV with all patients, regardless of providers' perception of risk. Next steps include small-scale implementation and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aish Lovett
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans, New Orleans, LA
| | - Rose Luder
- Louisiana State University Health School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Rebecca A. Lillis
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans, New Orleans, LA
| | - Isolde Butler
- CrescentCare Federally Qualified Health Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Julia Siren
- CrescentCare Federally Qualified Health Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Samuel Gomez
- CrescentCare Federally Qualified Health Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Kevin Kamis
- Public Health Institute at Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
| | | | - Sarah E. Rowan
- Public Health Institute at Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Meredith E. Clement
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans, New Orleans, LA
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Rosen AO, Wickersham JA, Altice FL, Khati A, Azwa I, Tee V, Jeri-Wahrhaftig A, Luces JR, Ni Z, Kamarulzaman A, Saifi R, Shrestha R. Barriers and Facilitators to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis by Men Who Have Sex with Men and Community Stakeholders in Malaysia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5669. [PMID: 37174187 PMCID: PMC10177799 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20095669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men who have sex with men (MSM) in Malaysia are disproportionately affected by HIV. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an evidence-based HIV prevention strategy; yet, uptake remains low among Malaysian MSM, who have a limited understanding of barriers to PrEP. METHODS We employed the nominal group technique (NGT), a structured mixed-methods strategy to understand the barriers and facilitators to PrEP use among Malaysian MSM, combined with a qualitative focus group. Six virtual focus group sessions, three among MSM (n = 20) and three among stakeholders (n = 16), were conducted using a video-conferencing platform. Rank-ordering of barriers from NGT was recorded, and thematic analysis was conducted for content. RESULTS Similar barriers were reported by MSM and community stakeholders, with aggregated costs associated with PrEP care (e.g., consultation with a clinician, medication, laboratory testing) being the greatest barrier, followed by limited knowledge and awareness of PrEP. Additionally, the lack of access to PrEP providers, the complex clinical protocol for PrEP initiation and follow-up, and social stigma undermined PrEP delivery. Qualitative discussions identified potential new strategies to overcome these barriers, including expanded outreach efforts to reach hard-to-reach MSM, a 'one-stop' delivery model for PrEP services, a patient-centered decision aid to guide PrEP uptake, and easy access to LGBT-friendly PrEP providers. CONCLUSION Current barriers may be overcome through governmental subsidy for PrEP and evidence-informed shared decision aids to support both MSM and PrEP providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aviana O. Rosen
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Jeffrey A. Wickersham
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Frederick L. Altice
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Antoine Khati
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Iskandar Azwa
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Vincent Tee
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Alma Jeri-Wahrhaftig
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Jeffrey Ralph Luces
- Master of Health Research Ethics (MOHRE), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Zhao Ni
- Yale School of Nursing, Yale University, Orange, CT 06477, USA
| | - Adeeba Kamarulzaman
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Rumana Saifi
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Roman Shrestha
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
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13
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Wagner GA, Wu KS, Anderson C, Burgi A, Little SJ. Predictors of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Uptake in a Sexual Health Clinic With Rapid PrEP Initiation. Open Forum Infect Dis 2023; 10:ofad060. [PMID: 36968957 PMCID: PMC10034584 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofad060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Improved pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake is essential for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention initiatives. Offering PrEP at the time of HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing can improve uptake. We offered rapid PrEP initiation in a sexual health clinic and assessed predictors of PrEP interest, initiation, linkage, and retention. Methods Between November 2018 and February 2020, PrEP-eligible individuals who presented to a sexual health clinic were offered a free 30-day supply of PrEP plus linkage to continued PrEP care. Univariable and multivariable analyses of demographic and HIV risk data were conducted to determine predictors of PrEP uptake. Results Of 1259 adults who were eligible for PrEP (99.7% male, 42.7% White, 36.2% Hispanic), 456 were interested in PrEP, 249 initiated PrEP, 209 were linked, and 67 were retained in care. Predictors of PrEP interest included younger age (P < .01), lower monthly income (P = .01), recreational drug use (P = .02), and a greater number of sexual partners (P < .01). Negative predictors of PrEP initiation included lower monthly income (P = .04), testing positive for chlamydia (P = .04), and exchanging money for sex (P = .01). Negative predictors of linkage included self-identifying as Black (P = .03) and testing positive for an STI (P < .01). Having health insurance positively predicted both linkage (P < .01) and retention (P < .03). Conclusions A minority of PrEP-eligible HIV and STI testers initiated PrEP when offered, suggesting that easy PrEP access in sexual health clinics alone may not improve uptake. Predictors of uptake included established HIV risk factors and markers of higher socioeconomic status, suggesting that those aware of their risk and with the means to utilize health services engaged best with this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel A Wagner
- Division of Infectious Diseases & Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Kuan-Sheng Wu
- Division of Infectious Diseases & Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Christy Anderson
- Division of Infectious Diseases & Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Alina Burgi
- Division of Infectious Diseases & Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Susan J Little
- Division of Infectious Diseases & Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
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14
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Thongsak N, Manojai N, Apiputhipan R, Rongram N, Mattawanon N, Bunyatisai W, Plubin B, Nakharutai N, Thumronglaohapun S, Srikummoon P, Wongsawat K, Traisathit P, Homkham N. Risk Factors Associated with Loss to Follow-up Among Transgender Women Receiving HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis in Chiang Mai province, Thailand. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:473-483. [PMID: 35930202 PMCID: PMC9362098 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03782-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Although HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is free in Thailand, many transgender women discontinue taking it after initiation. We determined the loss to follow-up (LTFU) rate of transgender women who initiated PrEP at the Mplus Foundation, Chiang Mai, Thailand, and identified associated risk factors using Cox proportional hazard models. Of 235 participants who initiated PrEP, 59 (55%) out of 108 remaining participants had reactive syphilis. The LTFU rate at 6 months was 38% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 29-48%). Multivariable analysis indicates that LTFU is independently associated with age ≥ 26 years old (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.06-4.14) and reactive syphilis (aHR = 1.98; 95% CI:1.01-3.88). Delayed appointment scheduling by the PrEP providers and the syphilis clinic was associated with transgender women having reactive syphilis, and the lockdown policy during the COVID-19 pandemic might have influenced them to discontinue PrEP and their subsequent LTFU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natthapat Thongsak
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | | | | | | | - Natnita Mattawanon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Walaithip Bunyatisai
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Bandhita Plubin
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Nawapon Nakharutai
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Salinee Thumronglaohapun
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Pimwarat Srikummoon
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kanokkan Wongsawat
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Patrinee Traisathit
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Data Science Research Center, Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand ,Research Center in Bioresources for Agriculture, Industry and Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Nontiya Homkham
- Faculty of Public Health, Thammasat University, Pathumthani, Thailand.
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15
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Echeverría-Guevara A, Coelho LE, Veloso VG, Pimenta MC, Hoagland B, Moreira RI, Leite I, Jalil EM, Cardoso SW, Torres TS, Grinsztejn B. Travestis, transgender women and young MSM are at high risk for PrEP early loss to follow-up in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Braz J Infect Dis 2022; 27:102733. [PMID: 36586721 PMCID: PMC9871061 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjid.2022.102733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with emtricitabine/tenofovir (FTC/TDF) is highly effective in preventing HIV infection. This study aimed to identify factors associated with PrEP early loss to follow-up (ELFU) among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM), travestis and transgender women (TGW). METHODOLOGY This was a prospective cohort study evaluating TGW and MSM who initiated PrEP at the Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI-Fiocruz) from 2014 to 2020. ELFU was defined as not returning for a PrEP visit within 180 days after first dispensation. Exposure variables included age, gender, race, education, transactional sex, condomless anal intercourse [CAI] (both in the past six months), binge drinking and substance use (both in past three months) and syphilis diagnosis at baseline. Multilevel logistic regression models with random intercepts and fixed slopes were used to identify factors associated with ELFU accounting for clustering of participants according to their PrEP initiation study/context (PrEP Brasil, PrEParadas, ImPrEP and PrEP SUS). RESULTS Among 1,463 participants, the median age was 29 years (interquartile range 24-36), 83% self-identified as MSM, 17% as TGW, 24% were black, 37% mixed-black/pardo and 30% had < 12 years of education. Fifteen percent reported transactional sex, 59% reported CAI, 67% binge drinking, 33% substance use, and 15% had a syphilis diagnosis. Overall, 137 participants (9.7%) had ELFU. Younger age (18-24 years) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.9, 95%CI:1.2-3.2), TGW (aOR 2.8, 95%CI:1.6-4.8) and education < 12 years (aOR 1.9, 95%CI:1.2-2.9) were associated with greater odds of ELFU. CONCLUSION TGW, young individuals and those with lower education were at higher risk of PrEP ELFU. Our results suggest that the development of specific strategies targeting these populations should be a priority, through policies that aim to reduce the incidence of HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Echeverría-Guevara
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Lara E. Coelho
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Valdiléa G. Veloso
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Maria C. Pimenta
- Departamento de Doenças de Condições Crônicas e Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis, Ministério da Saúde, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Brenda Hoagland
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ronaldo I. Moreira
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Iuri Leite
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sergio Arouca, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Emília M. Jalil
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sandra W. Cardoso
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Thiago S. Torres
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Grinsztejn
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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16
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Eger WH, Altice FL, Lee J, Vlahov D, Khati A, Osborne S, Wickersham JA, Bohonnon T, Powell L, Shrestha R. Using nominal group technique to identify barriers and facilitators to preventing HIV using combination same-day pre-exposure prophylaxis and medications for opioid use disorder. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:120. [PMID: 36307817 PMCID: PMC9616614 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00703-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preventing HIV transmission among people who inject drugs (PWID) is a key element of the US Ending the HIV Epidemic strategy and includes both pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). While both lead to decreases in HIV transmission, MOUD has other social and health benefits; meanwhile, PrEP has additional HIV prevention advantages from sexual risk and the injection of stimulants. However, these medications are often prescribed in different settings and require multiple visits before initiation. Strategies to integrate these services (i.e., co-prescription) and offer same-day prescriptions may reduce demands on patients who could benefit from them. METHODS Nominal group technique, a consensus method that rapidly generates and ranks responses, was used to ascertain barriers and solutions for same-day delivery of PrEP and MOUD as an integrated approach among PWID (n = 14) and clinical (n = 9) stakeholders. The qualitative portion of the discussion generated themes for analysis, and the ranks of the proposed barriers and solutions to the program are presented. RESULTS The top three barriers among PWID to getting a same-day prescription for both PrEP and MOUD were (1) instability of insurance (e.g., insurance lapses); (2) access to a local prescriber; and (3) client-level implementation factors, such as lack of personal motivation. Among clinical stakeholders, the three greatest challenges were (1) time constraints on providers; (2) logistics (e.g., coordination between providers and labs); and (3) availability of providers who can prescribe both medications. Potential solutions identified by both stakeholders included pharmacy delivery of the medications, coordinated care between providers and health care systems (e.g., case management), and efficiencies in clinical care (e.g., clinical checklists), among others. CONCLUSIONS Implementing and sustaining a combined PrEP and MOUD strategy will require co-training providers on both medications while creating efficiencies in systems of care and innovations that encourage and retain PWID in care. Pilot testing the co-prescribing of PrEP and MOUD with quality performance improvement is a step toward new practice models.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H Eger
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Frederick L Altice
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jessica Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Antoine Khati
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Sydney Osborne
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Wickersham
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Terry Bohonnon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Roman Shrestha
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP), University of Connecticut, 358 Mansfield Rd, Unit 1101, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA.
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17
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Khati A, Altice FL, Vlahov D, Eger WH, Lee J, Bohonnon T, Wickersham JA, Maviglia F, Copenhaver N, Shrestha R. Nurse Practitioner-Led Integrated Rapid Access to HIV Prevention for People Who Inject Drugs (iRaPID): Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e42585. [PMID: 36222826 PMCID: PMC9597427 DOI: 10.2196/42585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ongoing volatile opioid epidemic remains a significant public health concern, alongside continued outbreaks of HIV and hepatitis C virus among people who inject drugs. The limited access to and scale-up of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) among people who inject drugs, coupled with multilevel barriers to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake, makes it imperative to integrate evidence-based risk reduction and HIV prevention strategies in innovative ways. To address this need, we developed an integrated rapid access to HIV prevention program for people who inject drugs (iRaPID) that incorporates same-day PrEP and MOUD for this population. OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this pilot study is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the program and evaluate its preliminary efficacy on PrEP and MOUD uptake for a future randomized controlled trial (RCT). We also aim to explore information on the implementation of the program in a real-world setting using a type I hybrid implementation trial design. METHODS Using a type I hybrid implementation trial design, we are pilot testing the nurse practitioner-led iRaPID program while exploring information on its implementation in a real-world setting. Specifically, we will assess the feasibility and acceptability of the iRaPID program and evaluate its preliminary efficacy on PrEP and MOUD uptake in a pilot RCT. The enrolled 50 people who inject drugs will be randomized (1:1) to either iRaPID or treatment as usual (TAU). Behavioral assessments will occur at baseline, and at 1, 3, and 6 months. Additionally, we will conduct a process evaluation of the delivery and implementation of the iRaPID program to collect information for future implementation. RESULTS Recruitment began in July 2021 and was completed in August 2022. Data collection is planned through February 2023. The Institutional Review Boards at Yale University and the University of Connecticut approved this study (2000028740). CONCLUSIONS This prospective pilot study will test a nurse practitioner-led, integrated HIV prevention program that incorporates same-day PrEP and MOUD for people who inject drugs. This low-threshold protocol delivers integrated prevention via one-stop shopping under the direction of nurse practitioners. iRaPID seeks to overcome barriers to delayed PrEP and MOUD initiation, which is crucial for people who inject drugs who have had minimal access to evidence-based prevention. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04531670; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04531670. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/42585.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Khati
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | | | - David Vlahov
- Yale School of Nursing, West Haven, CT, United States
| | - William H Eger
- AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Jessica Lee
- AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Terry Bohonnon
- AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | | | | | - Nicholas Copenhaver
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Roman Shrestha
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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Spicehandler R, Zucker J, Yumori C, Adan M, Carnevale C, Theodore D, Castor D, Meyers K, Whittier S, Yin MT, Cohall A, Olender S, Gordon P, Sobieszczyk ME. Get2PrEP: An Electronic Medical Record Laboratory Comment Increased Safe Sex Counseling But Not Preexposure Prophylaxis Services at a Large Urban Academic Medical Center in Northern Manhattan. Sex Transm Dis 2022; 49:713-718. [PMID: 35921642 PMCID: PMC9481682 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) remains underutilized despite its efficacy and potential population impact. Achieving PrEP's full potential depends on providers who are knowledgeable and comfortable prescribing it to individuals at risk of acquiring HIV. Previous educational interventions targeting provider-related uptake barriers have had limited success. We designed and tested an electronic medical record (EMR) interpretative comment to improve the delivery of PrEP. METHODS An EMR comment provided information on PrEP eligibility and referral resources to providers delivering positive chlamydia and gonorrhea results. Positive test results for bacterial sexually transmitted infections before intervention (January 1, 2019-August 23, 2019) and after intervention (August 24, 2019-December 31, 2019) were identified. A retrospective chart review was conducted to ascertain provider documentation of PrEP discussions or provision, HIV prevention discussions, and HIV screening. Pretest-posttest analysis was performed to compare the provision of PrEP and HIV prevention services. RESULTS We reviewed 856 preintervention encounters spanning 8 months and 461 postencounters spanning 4 months. Patient demographics were comparable. We observed an increase in provider documentation of safe sex and condom counseling (odds ratios [ORs], 1.2 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.07-1.18] and 1.11 [95% CI, 1.05-1.17], respectively), and the absence of any HIV prevention discussion decreased (OR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.80-0.90), but not HIV screening or PrEP documentation. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated that an EMR laboratory comment had a modest effect on increasing risk reduction counseling, although not HIV screening or PrEP prescriptions. Future strategies to encourage provider delivery of sexual health services may benefit from more targeted strategies that combine behavioral and information technology approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jason Zucker
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases; Columbia University Irving Medical Center, University of California Los Angeles
| | - Caitlin Yumori
- Department of Internal Medicine; University of California Los Angeles
| | - Matthew Adan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases; Columbia University Irving Medical Center, University of California Los Angeles
| | | | - Deborah Theodore
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases; Columbia University Irving Medical Center, University of California Los Angeles
| | - Delivette Castor
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases; Columbia University Irving Medical Center, University of California Los Angeles
| | | | - Susan Whittier
- Clinical Microbiology Lab, Columbia University Irving Medical Center
| | - Michael T. Yin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases; Columbia University Irving Medical Center, University of California Los Angeles
| | - Alwyn Cohall
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center
- Mailman School of Public Health
| | - Susan Olender
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases; Columbia University Irving Medical Center, University of California Los Angeles
| | - Peter Gordon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases; Columbia University Irving Medical Center, University of California Los Angeles
| | - Magdalena E. Sobieszczyk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases; Columbia University Irving Medical Center, University of California Los Angeles
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19
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Clinical Considerations in the Selection of Preexposure Prophylaxis for HIV Prevention in Canada. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES AND MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY 2022; 2022:3913439. [PMID: 36081603 PMCID: PMC9448580 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3913439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, approximately 62,050 people were living with HIV in Canada in 2018, and of those, 13% were undiagnosed. Currently, no single strategy provides complete protection or is universally effective across all demographic groups at risk for HIV. However, HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is the newest HIV prevention strategy that shows promise. To date, two products have received an indication for PrEP by Health Canada: emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (Truvada®; FTC/TDF) and emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (Descovy®; FTC/TAF). Despite the high efficacy of these PrEP intervention methods, access to PrEP in Canada remains low. Identifying and addressing barriers to PrEP access, especially in high-risk groups, are necessary to reduce HIV transmission in Canada. While guidelines published by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) include FTC/TAF information, the efficacy of FTC/TAF for PrEP has not yet been considered in Canada's clinical practice guidelines. Thus, the current paper reviews data regarding the use of FTC/TDF and FTC/TAF for PrEP, which may be useful for Canadian healthcare providers when counseling and implementing HIV prevention methods. The authors highlight these data in relation to various at-risk populations and review ongoing clinical trials investigating novel PrEP agents. Overall, FTC/TDF PrEP is effective for many populations, including men who have sex with men, transgender women, heterosexuals with partners living with HIV, and people who use drugs. While there is fewer data reported on the efficacy of FTC/TAF to date, recent clinical trials have demonstrated noninferiority of FTC/TAF in comparison to FTC/TDF. Notably, as studies have shown that FTC/TAF maintains renal function and bone mineral density to a greater extent than FTC/TDF, FTC/TAF may be a safer option for patients experiencing renal and/or bone dysfunction, for those at risk of renal and bone complications, and for those who develop FTC/TDF-related adverse events.
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20
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Liu P, Stewart L, Short WR, Koenig H. Metrics of HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Implementation Before and After a Multidisciplinary Task Force at an Academic Institution. Qual Manag Health Care 2022; 31:170-175. [PMID: 35727768 DOI: 10.1097/qmh.0000000000000332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES There is a paucity of guidance on HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) implementation in an academic medical center. The objectives of this study were to describe interventions by a multidisciplinary PrEP task force at an academic medical center and compare metrics of PrEP implementation pre- and post-creation of this entity. METHODS The interventions of the task force are described within the rubric of the PrEP care continuum. Participants were adults prescribed PrEP for greater than or equal to 30 days at 9 clinical sites across a university health system. Metrics of PrEP implementation were compared over 12-month intervals before and after the creation of the task force. RESULTS An increased proportion of participants had HIV testing within 7 days of new PrEP prescriptions (92% vs 63%, P < .001) and were prescribed PrEP in increments of 90 days or shorter (74% vs 56%, P < .001) after the creation of the task force. There were higher rates of testing for bacterial sexually transmitted infections in men who had sex with men and transgender women in the post-intervention compared with pre-intervention period. CONCLUSIONS A multidisciplinary team that focuses on optimizing PrEP delivery along each step of the care continuum may facilitate PrEP scale-up and best practices in an academic setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Liu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (Drs Liu, Short, and Koenig); and Indian Health Service, Chinle, Arizona, and University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia (Dr Stewart)
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Medina‐Marino A, Bezuidenhout D, Ngwepe P, Bezuidenhout C, Facente SN, Mabandla S, Hosek S, Little F, Celum CL, Bekker L. Acceptability and feasibility of leveraging community-based HIV counselling and testing platforms for same-day oral PrEP initiation among adolescent girls and young women in Eastern Cape, South Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e25968. [PMID: 35872602 PMCID: PMC9309460 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Community-based delivery of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to South African adolescent girls and young women's (AGYW) could increase access but needs evaluation. We integrated PrEP services via home-based services and pop-up tents into existing community-based HIV testing services (CB-HTS) in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. METHODS After accessing CB-HTS via a "pop-up" tent or home-based services, HIV-negative AGYW aged 16-25 years were invited to complete a baseline questionnaire and referred for PrEP services at a community-based PrEP site co-located with pop-up HTS tents. A 30-day supply of PrEP was dispensed. PrEP uptake, time-to-initiation, cohort characteristics and first medication refill within 90 days were measured using descriptive statistics. RESULTS Of the 1164 AGYW who tested for HIV, 825 (74.3%) completed a questionnaire and 806 (97.7%) were referred for community-based PrEP. Of those, 624 (77.4%) presented for PrEP (482/483 [99.8%] from pop-up HTS and 142/323 [44.0%] from home-based HTS), of which 603 (96.6%) initiated PrEP. Of those initiating PrEP following home-based HTS, 59.1% initiated within 0-3 days, 25.6% within 4-14 days and 15.3% took ≥15 days to initiate; 100% of AGYW who used pop-up HTS initiated PrEP the same day. Among AGWY initiating PrEP, 37.5% had a detectable sexually transmitted infection (STI). Although AGYW reported a low self-perception of HIV risk, post-hoc application of HIV risk assessment measures to available data classified most study participants as high risk for HIV acquisition. Cumulatively, 329 (54.6%) AGYW presented for a first medication refill within 90 days of accepting their first bottle of PrEP. CONCLUSIONS Leveraging CB-HTS platforms to provide same-day PrEP initiation and refill services was acceptable to AGYW. A higher proportion of AGYW initiated PrEP when co-located with CB-HTS sites compared to those referred following home-based HTS, suggesting that proximity of CB-HTS and PrEP services facilitates PrEP uptake among AGYW. The high prevalence of STIs among those initiating PrEP necessitates the integration of STI and HIV prevention programs for AGYW. Eligibility for PrEP initiation should not be required among AHYW in high HIV burden communities. Community-based service delivery will be crucial to maintaining access to PrEP services during the COVID-19 pandemic and future health and humanitarian emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Medina‐Marino
- Desmond Tutu HIV CentreUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Research UnitFoundation for Professional Development, Buffalo City MetroEastern Cape ProvinceSouth Africa
- Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Dana Bezuidenhout
- Research UnitFoundation for Professional Development, Buffalo City MetroEastern Cape ProvinceSouth Africa
- Department of EpidemiologyMailman School of Public HealthColumbia UniversityNew York CityNew YorkUSA
| | - Phuti Ngwepe
- Research UnitFoundation for Professional Development, Buffalo City MetroEastern Cape ProvinceSouth Africa
- Department of Statistical SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Charl Bezuidenhout
- Research UnitFoundation for Professional Development, Buffalo City MetroEastern Cape ProvinceSouth Africa
- School of Public HealthBoston UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | | | - Selly Mabandla
- HIV/AIDSSTIs and TB ProgramBuffalo City Metro Health DistrictEastern Cape Province Department of HealthBhishoSouth Africa
| | - Sybil Hosek
- Departments of Psychiatry and Infectious DiseaseStroger Hospital of Cook CountyChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Francesca Little
- Department of Statistical SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Connie L. Celum
- Department of Global Health, Medicine and EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
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22
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Rutstein SE, Matoga M, Chen JS, Mathiya E, Ndalema B, Nyirenda N, Bonongwe N, Taoloka S, Chagomerana M, Tegha G, Hosseinipour MC, Herce ME, Jere E, Krysiak R, Hoffman IF. Integrating enhanced HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis into a sexually transmitted infection clinic in Lilongwe (ePrEP STI): A prospective cohort study (Preprint). JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e37395. [DOI: 10.2196/37395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Walters SM, Frank D, Van Ham B, Jaiswal J, Muncan B, Earnshaw V, Schneider J, Friedman SR, Ompad DC. PrEP Care Continuum Engagement Among Persons Who Inject Drugs: Rural and Urban Differences in Stigma and Social Infrastructure. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:1308-1320. [PMID: 34626265 PMCID: PMC8501360 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03488-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medication that prevents HIV acquisition, yet PrEP uptake has been low among people who inject drugs. Stigma has been identified as a fundamental driver of population health and may be a significant barrier to PrEP care engagement among PWID. However, there has been limited research on how stigma operates in rural and urban settings in relation to PrEP. Using in-depth semi-structured qualitative interviews (n = 57) we explore PrEP continuum engagement among people actively injecting drugs in rural and urban settings. Urban participants had more awareness and knowledge. Willingness to use PrEP was similar in both settings. However, no participant was currently using PrEP. Stigmas against drug use, HIV, and sexualities were identified as barriers to PrEP uptake, particularly in the rural setting. Syringe service programs in the urban setting were highlighted as a welcoming space where PWID could socialize and therefore mitigate stigma and foster information sharing.
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24
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Cantu C, Surita K, Buendia J. Factors that Increase Risk of an HIV Diagnosis Following a Diagnosis of Syphilis: A Population-Based Analysis of Texas Men. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2574-2580. [PMID: 35107661 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03593-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Studies have consistently shown that diagnosis of a syphilis infection increases the risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. This study examines patterns in HIV incidence among men following a Primary and Secondary (P&S) syphilis diagnosis. P&S syphilis cases among men reported to the Texas Department of State Health Services between January 2010 and June 2018 were linked to the Enhanced HIV/AIDS Reporting System. Risk factors for HIV diagnosis were identified using univariate and multivariate extended Cox proportional hazards models. The 9113 men with syphilis without a concurrent or prior HIV diagnosis contributed a cumulative 35,674 person-years with a mean follow-up time of 3.9 years. The multivariate model showed that among men with a P&S syphilis diagnosis, age, race/ethnicity, transmission risk, comorbid STDs, subsequent STDs, and syphilis diagnosing facility were independently associated with a new HIV diagnosis. The results highlight disparities in HIV diagnoses, despite current prevention recommendations. Reducing these disparities will require multi-level, comprehensive interventions that are appropriate for the diverse populations around the state.
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Killelea A, Johnson J, Dangerfield DT, Beyrer C, McGough M, McIntyre J, Gee RE, Ballreich J, Conti R, Horn T, Pickett J, Sharfstein JM. Financing and Delivering Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) to End the HIV Epidemic. THE JOURNAL OF LAW, MEDICINE & ETHICS : A JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF LAW, MEDICINE & ETHICS 2022; 50:8-23. [PMID: 35902089 PMCID: PMC9341207 DOI: 10.1017/jme.2022.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The U.S. has the tools to end the HIV epidemic, but progress has stagnated. A major gap in U.S. efforts to address HIV is the under-utilization of medications that can virtually eliminate acquisition of the virus, known as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). This document proposes a financing and delivery system to unlock broad access to PrEP for those most vulnerable to HIV acquisition and bring an end to the HIV epidemic.
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26
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Considerations for the Design of Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Interventions for Women: Lessons Learned from the Implementation of a Novel PrEP Intervention. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:3987-3999. [PMID: 34138377 PMCID: PMC8210500 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03353-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake among women in the United States has been low. To increase uptake, we developed a peer outreach and navigation PrEP intervention. Semi-structured qualitative interviews with 32 cisgender women and 3 transgender women were conducted to assess the intervention. We used a thematic approach to identify barriers to, and facilitators of the intervention. Facilitators included interest in PrEP, offer of health and social services, the intervention’s women-focused approach, and peer outreach and navigation. Barriers were perceived HIV risk, concerns about medication side effects or interactions, housing insecurity and travel, co-occurring health-related conditions, and caregiving responsibilities. We recommend that future interventions consider packaging PrEP in local community settings, such as syringe exchange programs; include services such as food and housing assistance; use peers to recruit and educate women; integrate a culturally appropriate women’s focus; and consider providing same-day PrEP.
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Bonacci RA, Smith DK, Ojikutu BO. Toward Greater Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Equity: Increasing Provision and Uptake for Black and Hispanic/Latino Individuals in the U.S. Am J Prev Med 2021; 61:S60-S72. [PMID: 34686293 PMCID: PMC8668046 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2021.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective at preventing HIV acquisition and is a critical tool in the Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. initiative. However, major racial and ethnic disparities across the pre-exposure prophylaxis continuum, secondary to structural inequities and systemic racism, threaten progress. Many barriers, operating at the individual, network, healthcare, and structural levels, impede PrEP access and uptake within Black and Hispanic/Latino communities. This review provides an overview of those barriers and the innovative and collaborative solutions that health departments, healthcare organizations, and community partners have implemented to increase PrEP provision and uptake among disproportionately affected communities. Promising strategies at the individual and network levels focus on increasing patient support throughout the PrEP continuum, positioning and training community members to expand knowledge of and interest in PrEP, and leveraging mobile technologies to support PrEP uptake. Healthcare-level solutions include expanding the venues and types of healthcare professionals that can provide PrEP, and structural- and policy-level options focus on financial assistance programs and health insurance expansion. Key research gaps include demonstrating that pilot studies and interventions remain effective at scale and across varied contexts. Although the last 2 decades have provided effective tools to end the HIV epidemic, realizing this vision for the U.S. will require addressing persistent and pervasive HIV-related disparities in Black and Hispanic/Latino communities. Federal, state, and local partners should expand efforts to address longstanding health and structural inequities and partner with disproportionately affected communities to rapidly expand PrEP scale-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Bonacci
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia; Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia.
| | - Dawn K Smith
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Bisola O Ojikutu
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Lillis R, Beckford J, Fegley J, Siren J, Hinton B, Gomez S, Taylor SN, Butler I, Halperin J, Clement ME. Evaluation of an HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Referral System: From Sexual Health Center to Federally Qualified Health Center Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Clinic. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2021; 35:354-359. [PMID: 34448603 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2021.0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Innovative delivery strategies are needed to facilitate access to HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). The objective of this study was to evaluate a navigator-facilitated PrEP referral process from a sexual health center (SHC) to a co-located PrEP clinic as an alternative delivery model. Electronic health record (EHR) data were used to calculate the number of clients seen at the SHC in 2019. Charts were manually reviewed to determine whether a PrEP clinic referral was made and document type of referral method: face-to-face appointment scheduling with the navigator (warm handoff), EHR messaging to navigator to schedule the appointment at a later time (EHR message), or provision of navigator's contact information to the client (card only). In 2019, 2481 unique potentially PrEP-eligible clients were seen at the SHC; 220 (9%) received a PrEP referral. Of referred clients, median age was 30 years (interquartile range, 24-34), 182 (83%) were male, 89 (40%) were non-Hispanic Black, and 24 (11%) were Latinx. In total, 94/220 (43%) referred clients attended an initial PrEP visit with a provider, and the proportion attending by referral method was 81%, 36%, and 27% for warm handoff, EHR message, and card only, respectively (p < 0.0001). Despite co-location of these two clinics, there were significant drop-offs along the PrEP care continuum for this referral system. Warm handoff was the most effective referral method, but further efforts are needed to understand barriers to referral. Implementation of same-day PrEP services at SHCs is one potential solution to engaging additional clients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Lillis
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
- LSU-CrescentCare Sexual Health Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Jeremy Beckford
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Joshua Fegley
- CrescentCare Federally Qualified Health Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Julia Siren
- CrescentCare Federally Qualified Health Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Bruce Hinton
- CrescentCare Federally Qualified Health Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Samuel Gomez
- CrescentCare Federally Qualified Health Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Stephanie N. Taylor
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
- LSU-CrescentCare Sexual Health Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Isolde Butler
- CrescentCare Federally Qualified Health Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Jason Halperin
- CrescentCare Federally Qualified Health Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Meredith Edwards Clement
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
- LSU-CrescentCare Sexual Health Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
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O'Byrne P, Orser L, Vandyk A. Immediate PrEP after PEP: Results from an Observational Nurse-Led PEP2PrEP Study. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2021; 19:2325958220939763. [PMID: 32856549 PMCID: PMC7457653 DOI: 10.1177/2325958220939763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients who use post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) are at ongoing risk for HIV acquisition after completing PEP. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use immediately after PEP, some practitioners are hesitant to offer PEP-to-PrEP (PEP2PrEP). We began offering PEP2PrEP in the sexually transmitted infection clinic in Ottawa, Canada on August 5, 2018. During the first 16 months of PEP2PrEP, 61 patients requested PEP and 46 were initiated; 30 of these patients agreed to PEP2PrEP and 26 followed through. None of our PEP patients had confirmed HIV exposures; all fulfilled the initiation criterion of condomless anal sex with a male partner of unknown HIV-status. During the study, the number of PEP requests and initiations was statistical unchanged, yet the seroconversion rate among patients who used PEP decreased from 1.7% pre-PEP2PrEP to 0% post-PEP2PrEP. Regarding follow-up, most discontinuations occurred between the PrEP intake and 1-month follow-up visit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick O'Byrne
- School of Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Sexual Health Clinic, Ottawa Public Health, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lauren Orser
- School of Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Sexual Health Clinic, Ottawa Public Health, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amanda Vandyk
- School of Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Bruxvoort KJ, Schumacher CM, Towner W, Jones J, Contreras R, Ling Grant D, Hechter RC. Referral Linkage to Preexposure Prophylaxis Care and Persistence on Preexposure Prophylaxis in an Integrated Health Care System. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 87:918-927. [PMID: 33633035 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Successful linkage to preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and retention in care are important for HIV prevention. We examined gaps in PrEP care following referral and factors associated with PrEP linkage and persistence in an integrated health care system in the United States. METHODS We identified individuals referred for PrEP from 2014 to 2017 at the Kaiser Permanente Southern California using electronic health records and assessed linkage to care, PrEP prescription orders and fills, and PrEP persistence (medication possession ratio ≥80%) in the year after the first fill. We evaluated demographic and clinical factors potentially associated with PrEP linkage and persistence using a series of multivariable modified Poisson regression models. RESULTS Of 2995 referred individuals, 74.9% were linked to PrEP care. Nearly all those linked to care were prescribed PrEP and filled a prescription, but only 47.4% of those who filled a prescription were persistent on PrEP. Individuals aged <25 years (vs ≥25 years), female subjects (vs males), and individuals with high-deductible insurance (vs no high deductible) were less likely to be linked to care. Individuals aged <25 years and Hispanics (vs non-Hispanic whites) were less likely to be persistent. Those with alcohol use disorder were more likely to be linked to PrEP care but less likely to be persistent. New HIV diagnoses occurred in 38 individuals, and only 1 had PrEP in possession at diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS We observed PrEP care gaps and disparities among individuals referred for PrEP. Patient-centered interventions are needed in primary care to address barriers to successful PrEP linkage and persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia J Bruxvoort
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA
| | - Christina M Schumacher
- Center for Child and Community Health Research, John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - William Towner
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA
| | - Joyce Jones
- Division of Infectious Diseases, John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; and
| | - Richard Contreras
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA
| | - Deborah Ling Grant
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA
| | - Rulin C Hechter
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA
- Department of Health Systems Science, Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, Pasadena, CA
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Ralph JA, Yeh C, Cowett A, Hirschhorn LR, Hammond C. Get PrEPPT (pre-exposure prophylaxis and pregnancy termination): an exploration of the values, attitudes and preferences regarding HIV and PrEP among women seeking abortion. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 47:e6. [PMID: 33122259 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2020-200623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for the prevention of HIV transmission is under utilised by women in the US. Women seeking abortion have a higher HIV prevalence than women who continue prenatal care and could benefit from HIV risk assessment and PrEP counselling. We assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and preferences of women seeking abortion care regarding their HIV risk and knowledge of PrEP, and identified individual and system barriers to PrEP access. METHODS We performed a cross sectional descriptive study of English speaking women at a freestanding abortion clinic through an anonymous survey. Participants with indications for PrEP care included those who performed sex work, experienced a recent sexually transmitted infection, or had multiple sexual partners and inconsistent condom use. We performed descriptive statistics on response data; Wilcoxon tests were used to compare continuous variables across groups. RESULTS 64 (32.3%) participants had indications for PrEP, but only 31 (16.1%) had previous knowledge of PrEP. After the concept was explained, attitudes towards PrEP were generally positive, and 54 participants (27.8%) would consider starting PrEP in the next 6 months. Participants were most interested in receiving PrEP care from their primary care provider rather than from an abortion clinic. CONCLUSIONS Among women seeking abortion, women vulnerable to HIV infection outnumbered those with PrEP knowledge by 2 to 1. Prior knowledge of PrEP as an HIV prevention method was low, but women found PrEP acceptable. While women reported preferring to receive PrEP from a primary care provider, the abortion clinic visit may also represent an important time for HIV education and risk screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessika Ann Ralph
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Family Planning, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Chen Yeh
- Preventive Medicine, Division of Biostatistics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Allison Cowett
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Family Planning, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Lisa R Hirschhorn
- Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Cassing Hammond
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Family Planning, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Johnson KA, Chen MJ, Kohn R, Sachdev D, Bacon O, Lee S, Cohen SE. Acute HIV at the Time of Initiation of Pre-exposure or Post-exposure Prophylaxis: Impact on Drug Resistance and Clinical Outcomes. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 87:818-825. [PMID: 33512849 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Initiating pre-exposure or post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP/PEP) in the setting of undiagnosed acute HIV (AHI) could cause antiretroviral resistance. We sought to characterize clinical outcomes and drug resistance mutations among individuals prescribed PrEP/PEP with undiagnosed AHI at a San Francisco sexually transmitted disease clinic. SETTING In our PrEP/PEP program, patients are tested for HIV using a point-of-care antibody test. If negative, patients are started on prophylaxis and screened for AHI using pooled HIV RNA (5-10 days turn-around). We used 2-drug PEP until 05/2016. METHODS We identified patients who had as-yet-undiagnosed AHI on the day of PrEP/PEP start between 2011 and 2018, then used our clinical record and surveillance data to describe HIV resistance and clinical outcomes. RESULTS Of 1758 PrEP and 2242 PEP starts, there were 7 AHI cases among PrEP users (0.40%) and 6 among PEP users (0.30%). Median times for linkage to HIV care, initiation of HIV treatment, and viral suppression were 7, 12, and 43 days. On initiation of HIV care, 3 patients (23%) were found to have an M184 mutation 7-12 days after starting PrEP/PEP. All 3 had genotyping performed on stored serum available from the date of PrEP/PEP start, each of which demonstrated wild-type virus. All 3 patients achieved durable viral suppression. CONCLUSIONS Although rare (occurring <0.5% of the time), AHI in the setting of PrEP/2-drug PEP can result in an M184 within days. Even with M184, persons with AHI achieve viral suppression when rapidly linked to care and initiated on antiretroviral therapy. Providers should consider AHI screening when starting PrEP/PEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A Johnson
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; and
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, Population Health Division, San Francisco, CA
| | - Miao-Jung Chen
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, Population Health Division, San Francisco, CA
| | - Robert Kohn
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, Population Health Division, San Francisco, CA
| | - Darpun Sachdev
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; and
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, Population Health Division, San Francisco, CA
| | - Oliver Bacon
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; and
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, Population Health Division, San Francisco, CA
| | - Sulggi Lee
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; and
| | - Stephanie E Cohen
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; and
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, Population Health Division, San Francisco, CA
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Haukoos JS, White DA, Rowan SE, Lyle C, Gravitz S, Basham K, Godoy A, Kamis K, Hopkins E, Anderson E. HIV Risk and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Eligibility Among Emergency Department Patients. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2021; 35:211-219. [PMID: 34097464 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2021.0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Our objective was to estimate the prevalence of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) eligibility, characterize self-perceived and quantified human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) risk, and assess PrEP knowledge and receptiveness of initiating PrEP among emergency department (ED) patients. We performed an IRB-approved cross-sectional study from two urban EDs. Patients were eligible if ≥18 years of age and not known to have HIV. Research staff obtained verbal consent and used a structured 29-item instrument to assess HIV risk, PrEP eligibility based on 2017 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, and general PrEP knowledge among unselected and enriched patient samples, the latter informed by the Denver HIV Risk Score (DHRS). We enrolled 1002 patients with a median age of 39 years; 54.8% were male, 30.9% White/non-Hispanic, 29.5% Black/non-Hispanic, and 22.5% Hispanic. In the full cohort, 119 [11.9%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 9.9-14.0%] were PrEP eligible, and among the unselected cohort, 36 (7.1%, 95% CI: 5.1-9.8%) were PrEP eligible. Using the DHRS, 100 patients were considered "high risk" with 32 (32.0%) reporting zero perceived risk. Correlation between the DHRS and self-perceived HIV risk was low (r = 0.13). Of the full cohort, 203 (20.3%) had heard of PrEP, and of these, 33 (16.3%) were PrEP eligible with 25 (75.8%) willing to start PrEP immediately. Yet, of the 119 patients who were PrEP eligible, only 34 (28.6%) had heard of PrEP. In summary, among a heterogeneous ED population, there was discordance in self-perceived and quantified HIV risk. HIV PrEP eligibility was ∼7% with the highest eligibility among those identified as DHRS "high risk." A significant opportunity exists to identify and initiate PrEP among ED patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason S. Haukoos
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, Colorado, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Douglas A.E. White
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Highland Hospital, Alameda Health System, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Sarah E. Rowan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Denver Public Health, Denver Health, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Carolynn Lyle
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Stephanie Gravitz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Kellie Basham
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Highland Hospital, Alameda Health System, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Ashley Godoy
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Highland Hospital, Alameda Health System, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Kevin Kamis
- Denver Public Health, Denver Health, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Emily Hopkins
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, Colorado, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Erik Anderson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Highland Hospital, Alameda Health System, Oakland, California, USA
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Spinelli MA, Buchbinder SP. Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Persistence Is a Critical Issue in PrEP Implementation. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 71:583-585. [PMID: 31509603 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A Spinelli
- Bridge HIV, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, California, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Susan P Buchbinder
- Bridge HIV, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, California, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
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In Support of the Publicly Funded Sexually Transmitted Infections Specialty Clinic-ASTDA Position Statement. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 47:503-505. [PMID: 32520881 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Roth AM, Tran NK, Felsher MA, Gadegbeku AB, Piecara B, Fox R, Krakower DS, Bellamy SL, Amico KR, Benitez JA, Van Der Pol B. Integrating HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis With Community-Based Syringe Services for Women Who Inject Drugs: Results From the Project SHE Demonstration Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 86:e61-e70. [PMID: 33148998 PMCID: PMC7878321 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To guide future preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) implementation for women who inject drugs (WWID), a population increasingly represented in new HIV cases in the United States, we present results from a demonstration project integrated within a syringe services program (SSP) in Philadelphia, PA. METHODS WWID ≥18 years were educated about and offered 24 weeks of daily PrEP. Participants completed surveys and clinical assessments at baseline and at weeks 1, 3, 12, and 24. We used descriptive statistics to estimate feasibility/acceptability, engagement in the care cascade, HIV/sexually transmitted diseases (STI) and pregnancy, issues of safety/tolerability, and preferences/satisfaction with PrEP services. Multivariable logistic regression with generalized estimating equations was used to identify factors associated with PrEP uptake and retention. RESULTS We recruited 136 WWID. Of those, 95 were included in the final sample, and 63 accepted a PrEP prescription at week 1. Uptake was associated with greater baseline frequency of SSP access [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.85; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.24 to 2.77], inconsistent condom use (aOR = 3.38; 95% CI: 1.07 to 10.7), and experiencing sexual assault (aOR = 5.89; 95% CI: 1.02, 33.9). Of these 95, 42 (44.2%) were retained at week 24. Retention was higher among women who reported more frequent baseline SSP access (aOR = 1.46; 95% CI: 1.04 to 2.24). Self-reported adherence was high but discordant with urine-based quantification of tenofovir. Baseline STI prevalence was 17.9%; there were 2 HIV seroconversions and 1 pregnancy. Safety/tolerability issues were uncommon, and acceptability/satisfaction was high. CONCLUSIONS Integrating PrEP with SSP services is feasible and acceptable for WWID. This suggests that daily PrEP is a viable prevention tool for this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis M. Roth
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nguyen K. Tran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Marisa A. Felsher
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Annette B. Gadegbeku
- Department of Family, Community, and Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Brogan Piecara
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rachel Fox
- Partnership Comprehensive Care Practice, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Douglas S. Krakower
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scarlett L. Bellamy
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - K. Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Barbara Van Der Pol
- Division of Infectious Disease, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Koss CA, Havlir DV, Ayieko J, Kwarisiima D, Kabami J, Chamie G, Atukunda M, Mwinike Y, Mwangwa F, Owaraganise A, Peng J, Olilo W, Snyman K, Awuonda B, Clark TD, Black D, Nugent J, Brown LB, Marquez C, Okochi H, Zhang K, Camlin CS, Jain V, Gandhi M, Cohen CR, Bukusi EA, Charlebois ED, Petersen ML, Kamya MR, Balzer LB. HIV incidence after pre-exposure prophylaxis initiation among women and men at elevated HIV risk: A population-based study in rural Kenya and Uganda. PLoS Med 2021; 18:e1003492. [PMID: 33561143 PMCID: PMC7872279 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective for HIV prevention, but data are limited on HIV incidence among PrEP users in generalized epidemic settings, particularly outside of selected risk groups. We performed a population-based PrEP study in rural Kenya and Uganda and sought to evaluate both changes in HIV incidence and clinical and virologic outcomes following seroconversion on PrEP. METHODS AND FINDINGS During population-level HIV testing of individuals ≥15 years in 16 communities in the Sustainable East Africa Research in Community Health (SEARCH) study (NCT01864603), we offered universal access to PrEP with enhanced counseling for persons at elevated HIV risk (based on serodifferent partnership, machine learning-based risk score, or self-identified HIV risk). We offered rapid or same-day PrEP initiation and flexible service delivery with follow-up visits at facilities or community-based sites at 4, 12, and every 12 weeks up to week 144. Among participants with incident HIV infection after PrEP initiation, we offered same-day antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation and analyzed HIV RNA, tenofovir hair concentrations, drug resistance, and viral suppression (<1,000 c/ml based on available assays) after ART start. Using Poisson regression with cluster-robust standard errors, we compared HIV incidence among PrEP initiators to incidence among propensity score-matched recent historical controls (from the year before PrEP availability) in 8 of the 16 communities, adjusted for risk group. Among 74,541 individuals who tested negative for HIV, 15,632/74,541 (21%) were assessed to be at elevated HIV risk; 5,447/15,632 (35%) initiated PrEP (49% female; 29% 15-24 years; 19% in serodifferent partnerships), of whom 79% engaged in ≥1 follow-up visit and 61% self-reported PrEP adherence at ≥1 visit. Over 7,150 person-years of follow-up, HIV incidence was 0.35 per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.22-0.49) among PrEP initiators. Among matched controls, HIV incidence was 0.92 per 100 person-years (95% CI 0.49-1.41), corresponding to 74% lower incidence among PrEP initiators compared to matched controls (adjusted incidence rate ratio [aIRR] 0.26, 95% CI 0.09-0.75; p = 0.013). Among women, HIV incidence was 76% lower among PrEP initiators versus matched controls (aIRR 0.24, 95% CI 0.07-0.79; p = 0.019); among men, HIV incidence was 40% lower, but not significantly so (aIRR 0.60, 95% CI 0.12-3.05; p = 0.54). Of 25 participants with incident HIV infection (68% women), 7/25 (28%) reported taking PrEP ≤30 days before HIV diagnosis, and 24/25 (96%) started ART. Of those with repeat HIV RNA after ART start, 18/19 (95%) had <1,000 c/ml. One participant with viral non-suppression was found to have transmitted viral resistance, as well as emtricitabine resistance possibly related to PrEP use. Limitations include the lack of contemporaneous controls to assess HIV incidence without PrEP and that plasma samples were not archived to assess for baseline acute infection. CONCLUSIONS Population-level offer of PrEP with rapid start and flexible service delivery was associated with 74% lower HIV incidence among PrEP initiators compared to matched recent controls prior to PrEP availability. HIV infections were significantly lower among women who started PrEP. Universal HIV testing with linkage to treatment and prevention, including PrEP, is a promising approach to accelerate reductions in new infections in generalized epidemic settings. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01864603.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A. Koss
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Diane V. Havlir
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - James Ayieko
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Jane Kabami
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gabriel Chamie
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | | | - Yusuf Mwinike
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - James Peng
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Winter Olilo
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Katherine Snyman
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Benard Awuonda
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Tamara D. Clark
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Douglas Black
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Joshua Nugent
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Lillian B. Brown
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Carina Marquez
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Hideaki Okochi
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Kevin Zhang
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Carol S. Camlin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Vivek Jain
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Monica Gandhi
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Craig R. Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Edwin D. Charlebois
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Maya L. Petersen
- Graduate Group in Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - Moses R. Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Laura B. Balzer
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Teixeira da Silva D, Bouris A, Ramachandran A, Blocker O, Davis B, Harris J, Pyra M, Rusie LK, Brewer R, Pagkas-Bather J, Hotton A, Ridgway JP, McNulty M, Bhatia R, Schneider JA. Embedding a Linkage to Preexposure Prophylaxis Care Intervention in Social Network Strategy and Partner Notification Services: Results From a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 86:191-199. [PMID: 33109935 PMCID: PMC8103968 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake among black men who have sex with men and black transgender women (BMSM/TW) is needed to end the HIV epidemic. Embedding a brief intervention in network services that engage individuals in HIV transmission networks for HIV/ sexually transmitted infections testing may be an important strategy to accelerate PrEP uptake. SETTING Partner Services PrEP study is a pilot, randomized, control trial to improve linkage to PrEP care among BMSM/TW presenting for network services in Chicago, IL, from 2015 to 2017. METHODS BMSM/TW (N = 146) aged 18-40 years were recruited from network services (partners services and social network strategy services). Intervention participants developed an individualized linkage plan based on the information-motivation-behavioral skills model and received minibooster sessions. Control participants received treatment as usual. Sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical factors were examined at baseline and 3- and 12-month postintervention. Intent-to-treat analyses examined linkage to PrEP care within 3-month postintervention (primary outcome). Secondary outcomes were PrEP initiation, time to linkage to PrEP care, and time to PrEP initiation. RESULTS Compared with control participants, a significantly greater proportion of the intervention participants were linked to PrEP care within 3 months (24% vs. 11%; P = 0.04) and initiated PrEP (24% vs. 11%; P = 0.05). Among those linked to PrEP care within the study period, intervention participants were linked significantly sooner than control participants [median (interquartile range) days, 26.5 (6.0-141.8) vs. 191.5 (21.5-297.0); P = 0.05]. CONCLUSION Study results support the preliminary efficacy of Partner Services PrEP to improve linkage to PrEP care and PrEP initiation among BMSM/TW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Teixeira da Silva
- Department of Combined Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Alida Bouris
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL
| | | | | | - Billy Davis
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Maria Pyra
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL
- Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Russell Brewer
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL
| | - Jade Pagkas-Bather
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL
- Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL
| | - Anna Hotton
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL
| | - Jessica P Ridgway
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL
| | - Moira McNulty
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL
| | | | - John A Schneider
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL
- Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Standard care for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in the USA creates substantial burdens for patients, clinicians, and the healthcare system; to optimize uptake, there is a need for innovative strategies to streamline its provision. RECENT FINDINGS Our review, structured by the expanded chronic care model, identified eleven promising strategies to streamline PrEP care. Approaches ranged widely in mechanism of action. Using text messages to support care was the only strategy with clinical trial evidence supporting its use. Other modalities such as patient navigation, telemedicine PrEP models, alternate dosing availability, same-day prescription, and provider training have promising pilot or associational data and seem likely to lower barriers to entering into or remaining in care. Many of the strategies have established success in related domains such as HIV care, meriting consideration in evaluating their use for PrEP. Making PrEP care less burdensome will be an important part of bringing it to scale. Text message interventions have proven efficacy and merit broad adoption. Encouraging preliminary evidence for other strategies indicates the importance of building a stronger evidence base to clarify the effect of each strategy. Ongoing development of an evidence base should not delay the use of these promising strategies; instead, it calls for careful consideration for how each program may best match its environment to facilitate PrEP prescribing and use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron J Siegler
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Kevin Steehler
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Emory University, School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Jessica M Sales
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Douglas S Krakower
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Yingling C, Broholm C, Stephenson S. Pharmacoprevention of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection. Nurs Clin North Am 2020; 55:429-444. [PMID: 32762861 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnur.2020.06.006] [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: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This article reviews the disparities in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) incidence, presents evidence on the efficacy of preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis (nPEP), provides an overview of clinical guidelines for prescribing PrEP and nPEP, discusses strategies to promote efficient use of these effective interventions, and reviews best practices in treatment retention for people at high risk for HIV. Nurses are optimally positioned to prevent new HIV infections. When working with sensitive topics such as sexual practices and substance use, nurses excel at building rapport, making shared decisions, and educating about risk reduction with an affirming, nonjudgmental approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Yingling
- Department of Population Health Nursing Science, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Nursing, 845 South Damen Avenue, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Cindy Broholm
- Harriet Rothkopf Heilbrunn School of Nursing, Long Island University, 1 University Plaza, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA
| | - Shirley Stephenson
- Department of Population Health Nursing Science, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Nursing, 3240 West Division Street, Chicago, IL 60651, USA
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Rowan SE, Patel RR, Schneider JA, Smith DK. Same-day prescribing of daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention. Lancet HIV 2020; 8:e114-e120. [PMID: 33128874 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(20)30256-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective in reducing HIV transmission but remains underutilised globally. Same-day PrEP prescribing and medication provision is an emerging implementation approach. The experiences of the three same-day PrEP programmes support the feasibility of the approach. Key elements of safe and effective same-day PrEP programmes include the ability to order laboratory tests at the time of the clinical visit and the ability to contact patients when laboratory results are available. Same-day PrEP has the potential to alleviate the attrition seen in usual care between initial evaluation and receipt of a PrEP prescription. A widespread application of same-day prescribing will be needed to assess its effect on PrEP usage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rupa R Patel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA.
| | | | - Dawn K Smith
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Howren MB, Francis SL, Polgreen LA, Shafer C, Hoth A, Ohl ME. Predictors of HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis Initiation Among Public Health Clients in Rural and Small Urban Areas in Iowa. Public Health Rep 2020; 136:172-182. [PMID: 33108986 DOI: 10.1177/0033354920966026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a safe and effective method for HIV prevention, but little is known about PrEP uptake in rural and small urban areas. We described rates and predictors of HIV PrEP initiation among public health clients in rural and small urban areas in Iowa. METHODS This was a prospective cohort study of clients with PrEP indications served by HIV testing and disease intervention specialist/partner services (DIS/PS) programs in public health departments in Iowa from February 1, 2018, through February 28, 2019. Eligible participants were aged 18-70 and referred for PrEP by public health personnel. Participants completed surveys at enrollment addressing demographic characteristics; sexual history; previous drug use; PrEP experiences; and knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about PrEP. A follow-up survey assessed PrEP initiation at 30 days. We compared baseline characteristics of PrEP initiators and non-initiators. RESULTS Two hundred thirty-four public health clients consented to participate in the study; 189 completed the baseline survey, and 117 (61.9%) completed the follow-up survey. The mean age of participants in the baseline survey was 30 (range, 18-68); 109 (57.7%) were male, 127 (67.2%) were White, and 169 (89.4%) lived in a rural or small urban area. Of 117 participants in the follow-up survey, those who initiated PrEP were significantly more likely than those who did not initiate PrEP to be referred by DIS/PS programs (46.7% vs 7.8%, P < .001) and to recognize that PrEP was ≥90% effective (86.7% vs 35.3%, P = .001). No PrEP initiators and 8 PrEP non-initiators agreed that PrEP is for promiscuous people (0% vs 7.8%, P = .04). Perceived PrEP stigma was low and not associated with PrEP initiation. CONCLUSIONS PrEP initiation rates were low among rural and small urban health department clients. Interventions are needed to improve linkage to PrEP among rural and small urban public health clients.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bryant Howren
- 7823 Department of Behavioral Sciences & Social Medicine, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA.,Florida Blue Center for Rural Health Research & Policy, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA.,12243 Center for Access Delivery Research & Evaluation (CADRE), VA Iowa City Healthcare System, Iowa City, IA, USA.,VHA Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City, VA Iowa City Healthcare System, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Shelby L Francis
- 4083 Division of Infectious Diseases, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Linnea A Polgreen
- 4083 Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Cody Shafer
- HIV Special Projects Division, NuCara Pharmacy, Des Moines, IA, USA
| | - Angela Hoth
- 4083 Division of Infectious Diseases, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Michael E Ohl
- 12243 Center for Access Delivery Research & Evaluation (CADRE), VA Iowa City Healthcare System, Iowa City, IA, USA.,VHA Office of Rural Health, Veterans Rural Health Resource Center-Iowa City, VA Iowa City Healthcare System, Iowa City, IA, USA.,4083 Division of Infectious Diseases, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Sizovs A, Pons-Faudoa FP, Malgir G, Shelton KA, Bushman LR, Chua CYX, Anderson PL, Nehete PN, Sastry KJ, Grattoni A. Trans-urocanic acid enhances tenofovir alafenamide stability for long-acting HIV applications. Int J Pharm 2020; 587:119623. [PMID: 32663582 PMCID: PMC7484042 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2020.119623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Long-acting (LA) pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention is poised to address non-adherence and implementation challenges by alleviating the burden of user-dependent dosing. Due to its potency, tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) is a viable candidate for LA PrEP. However, the inherent hydrolytic instability of TAF presents a challenge for application in LA systems. In this work, we examined the mechanism of TAF hydrolysis in a reservoir-based implant system and characterized TAF degradation kinetics as a function of the solution pH. We determined a pH "stability window" between pH 4.8 - 5.8 in which TAF degradation is substantially mitigated, with minimal degradation at pH 5.3. In a pursuit of a TAF formulation suitable for LA PrEP, we studied trans-urocanic acid (UA) as a buffer excipient. Here we show that UA can maintain the pH of TAF free base (TAFfb) solution inside a surrogate implant model at approximately pH 5.4. Through in vitro analysis, we demonstrated preservation of released TAF purity above 90% for over 9 months. Further, we performed an in vivo assessment of TAFfb-UA formulation in a reservoir-based nanofluidic implant inserted subcutaneously in non-human primates. Preventive levels of tenofovir diphosphate above 100 fmol/106 peripheral blood mononuclear cells were achieved in 2 days and sustained over 35 days. Fluid retrieved from implants after 60 days of implantation showed that UA preserved the aqueous phase in the implant at ~ pH 5.5, effectively counteracting the neutralizing action of interstitial fluids. Moreover, residual TAF in the implants maintained > 98% purity. Overall, TAF-UA represents a viable formulation applicable for LA HIV PrEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antons Sizovs
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Fernanda P Pons-Faudoa
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monterrey, NL, Mexico
| | - Gulsah Malgir
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Kathryn A Shelton
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Michael E. Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Bastrop, TX 78602, USA
| | - Lane R Bushman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado- Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Corrine Ying Xuan Chua
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Peter L Anderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado- Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Pramod N Nehete
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Michael E. Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Bastrop, TX 78602, USA; The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - K Jagannadha Sastry
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Michael E. Keeling Center for Comparative Medicine and Research, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Bastrop, TX 78602, USA; Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Alessandro Grattoni
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Radiation Oncology, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Vanhamel J, Rotsaert A, Reyniers T, Nöstlinger C, Laga M, Van Landeghem E, Vuylsteke B. The current landscape of pre-exposure prophylaxis service delivery models for HIV prevention: a scoping review. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:704. [PMID: 32736626 PMCID: PMC7395423 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05568-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Strengthening HIV prevention is imperative given the continued high HIV incidence worldwide. The introduction of oral PrEP as a new biomedical HIV prevention tool can be a potential game changer because of its high clinical efficacy and the feasibility of its provision to different key populations. Documenting the existing experience with PrEP service delivery in a variety of real-world settings will inform how its uptake and usage can be maximised. Methods We conducted a scoping review using the five-step framework provided by Arksey and O’Malley. We systematically searched the existing peer-reviewed international and grey literature describing the implementation of real-world PrEP service delivery models reporting on four key components: the target population of PrEP services, the setting where PrEP was delivered, PrEP providers’ professionalisation and PrEP delivery channels. We restricted our search to English language articles. No geographical or time restrictions were set. Results This review included 33 articles for charting and analysing of the results. The identified service delivery models showed that PrEP services mainly targeted people at high risk of HIV acquisition, with some models targeting specific key populations, mainly men who have sex with men. PrEP was often delivered centralised and in a clinical or hospital setting. Yet also community-based as well as home-based PrEP delivery models were reported. Providers of PrEP were mainly clinically trained health professionals, but in some rare cases community workers and lay providers also delivered PrEP. In general, in-person visits were used to deliver PrEP. More innovative digital options using mHealth and telemedicine approaches to deliver specific parts of PrEP services are currently being applied in a minority of the service delivery models in mainly high-resource settings. Conclusions A range of possible combinations was found between all four components of PrEP service delivery models. This reflects differentiation of care according to different contextual settings. More research is needed on how integration of services in these contexts could be expanded and optimised to respond to key populations with unmet HIV prevention needs in different settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jef Vanhamel
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Anke Rotsaert
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Thijs Reyniers
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Christiana Nöstlinger
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Marie Laga
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ella Van Landeghem
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bea Vuylsteke
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-2000, Antwerp, Belgium
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45
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Khalili J, Landovitz RJ. HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis-The Role of Primary Care Clinicians in Ending the HIV Epidemic. JAMA Intern Med 2020; 180:126-130. [PMID: 31738380 DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2019.5456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
A global human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic persists despite data to support multiple effective and safe tools that prevent HIV transmission and acquisition. Human immunodeficiency virus preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV-uninfected at-risk populations using tenofovir disoproxil fumarate emtricitabine is highly effective, safe, and recently endorsed by the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) as a grade A recommendation. In this Special Communication, we summarize current guidelines and expert recommendations in a call for wider adoption of PrEP prescribing activities by frontline primary care clinicians. Key components include the ideal contexts in which PrEP may be prescribed, eligibility criteria, clinical considerations and pitfalls, laboratory monitoring, prescription practices, situations that may warrant expert consultation, and future directions. Given the broad scope, access, and point-of-entry status of primary clinicians in health systems, generalists will need to be at the center of any successful effort to leverage the power of, and destigmatize PrEP to end the HIV epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Khalili
- Center for Clinical AIDS Research and Education, David Geffen School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Raphael J Landovitz
- Center for Clinical AIDS Research and Education, David Geffen School of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California, Los Angeles
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46
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Khosropour CM, Backus KV, Means AR, Beauchamps L, Johnson K, Golden MR, Mena L. A Pharmacist-Led, Same-Day, HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Initiation Program to Increase PrEP Uptake and Decrease Time to PrEP Initiation. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2020; 34:1-6. [PMID: 31944854 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2019.0235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Mississippi has one of the highest rates of HIV in the United States, but has low pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake, particularly among black men who have sex with men (MSM) and women. From November 2018 to May 2019, patients at high risk of HIV who tested negative for HIV at a nonclinical testing center in Jackson, Mississippi, were referred to an on-site clinical pharmacist for same-day PrEP initiation. The pharmacist evaluated patients for medical contraindications to PrEP, but no baseline labs were obtained. The pharmacist provided a PrEP prescription and scheduled a clinical appointment for patients within 6 weeks, at which time they were evaluated by a clinician and completed baseline labs. The pharmacist evaluated 69 patients for PrEP; 57% were MSM, 77% were black, and 65% were uninsured. All patients received a PrEP prescription; 83% received the prescription the same day and 97% received it within 5 days. Fifty-three (77%) of 69 clients filled the prescription; 87% of whom filled it within 1 week. Only 23 (43%) of 53 clients who filled their prescription attended their initial clinical appointment within 6 weeks of obtaining PrEP. There were no differences in PrEP initiation or retention by patient sex/gender. This pilot program suggests that an on-site pharmacist working in a nonclinical testing center in the southern United States can successfully initiate PrEP among predominately low-income black MSM. Future efforts should seek to better integrate laboratory testing into this demedicalized model of PrEP and to improve retention in care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kandis V. Backus
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Arianna R. Means
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Laura Beauchamps
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Kendra Johnson
- HIV/STD Office, Mississippi State Department of Health, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Matthew R. Golden
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- HIV/STD Program, Public Health—Seattle and King County, Seattle, Washington
| | - Leandro Mena
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
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