Trends in U.S. HIV Peer Health Worker Training Strategies and Approaches: A Scoping Review of the Literature

What makes peers credible? A qualitative analysis to operationalize peer credibility in HIV-prevention and treatment programs for Latino MSM

The potential of peers to be effective in delivering HIV interventions is linked at least in part to the degree to which they are perceived as credible sources of HIV-related information. This study aimed to operationalize qualities that would make a LMSM peer implementer credible. We conducted a qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews with 20 LMSM and focus groups with 11 HIV service implementers. The parent study collected formative data to inform the design of a strategy to enhance the reach of HIV prevention and treatment services to LMSM. The present study examined participant views on qualities necessary for peer implementers to establish credibility among LMSM. We identified five themes regarding peer credibility, including (1) Peers must be trained in HIV prevention and care, (2) Peers should be verified and have a special designation indicating their knowledge and trustworthiness, (3) Peers should convey accurate information and not spread misinformation, (4) Peers should be relatable and interpersonally skilled, and (5) Peers should be engaged with the general LGBTQ + community to generate trust and credibility. Findings can inform the development of acceptable peer strategies for LMSM, peer recruitment, training, and peer supervision.

Developing and testing a web-based platform for antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence support among adolescents and young adults (AYA) living with HIV

Objective

Describe the development and testing of a web-based platform for antiretroviral treatment (ART) adherence support among HIV+ adolescents and young adults (AYA) in a randomized controlled trial (RCT).

Methods

A seven-member multi-disciplinary team operationalized the flat, password protected, web-based platform. Manualized protocols guided the objectives and content for each of the eight web-based sessions. Team members evaluated usability and content validity. Client satisfaction and perceived ease of use was evaluated with the first ten HIV+ AYA participants.

Results

The web-based platform was developed, evaluated, refined, implemented and pilot tested between September 2020 to April 2022. Usability was rated as high; the evaluation of content validity showed an excellent fit between session content and objectives. HIV+ AYA participants (mean age = 24.2 years) were satisfied with the quality, type, and amount of support/education received, and found the platform easy to use, operate, and navigate. Average time spent per session was 6.5 min.

Conclusion

Findings support the usability, validity, acceptability, and feasibility of this web-based platform for ART adherence support among HIV+ AYA.

Innovation

Our research and findings are responsive to research gaps and the need for transparency in the methodological development and testing of web-based control arms for ART adherence support among HIV+ AYA.

Community engagement tools in HIV/STI prevention research

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Community engagement is key to the success of sustainable public health interventions. This review highlights recent published studies that describe the use of community-engaged methods in sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention research.

RECENT FINDINGS

We organized the findings using a socio-ecological model. At the individual level, communities were engaged through participation in formative research, short-term consultations and community advisory board participation, as well as co-creation activities. At the interpersonal level, studies reviewed described peer-led interventions that leverage the influence and guidance of peers, patient-led interventions in the form of patient navigation and notification, as well as those that mobilize social networks and the power of social relationships to promote health. At the organizational and community level, multisectoral, multifacility collaborations between community, government, and academic stakeholders were highlighted. At the policy and population level, communities were engaged through community dialogues to disseminate research findings, as well as in developing strategic frameworks and clinical guidelines. Digital tools have also been leveraged for effective community engagement.

SUMMARY

Communities have an effective role to play in STI prevention and can be engaged at multiple levels. Future efforts may consider the use of community engagement tools highlighted in this review, including digital technologies that have the potential to reach more diverse end-users.