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Closson K, Lee GY, Osborne Z, Hangle C, Nemutambwe T, Raj A, Leonce I, Kaida A. "Nobody has written the book about what non-binary people should put forward in relationships": Exploring gender equity in relationships of queer, trans, and non-monogamous young women and non-binary youth in British Columbia, Canada. Soc Sci Med 2024; 347:116759. [PMID: 38513562 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the unique ways in which queer, trans, and non-monogamous young women and non-binary youth navigate and negotiate equitable intimate relationships is a first step toward strong research, programs/resources, and policies to support healthy relationship dynamics across the life course. Using a youth-engaged collaborative Reflexive Thematic Analysis, we aimed to explore how youth of diverse genders and relationship experiences understand gender equity in their relationships. Thirty cis- and transgender inclusive young women (46.7%) and non-binary youth (53.3%) aged 17-29 who were in a current (76.6%) or recent (in past 12 months, 23.4%) non-heterosexual and/or non-monogamous intimate relationship and residing in British Columbia, Canada, completed qualitative interviews between August and November 2022. Of the 30 youth, 53.3% reported having experience living as a trans person, 33.3% identified only as bisexual and 10% identified as only lesbian or gay, whereas the remaining 56.7% identified with ≥1 of: queer, pansexual, and demisexual. Participants identified that relationship equity requires: 1) Moving away from cis-heteronormative conceptualizations of gender roles and norms; 2) Actively working to dismantle hierarchal power structures by sharing power, responsibility, labour, and decision-making; and 3) Accommodating and affirming each person's unique needs and identities in a relationship. For theme one, youth further described the ways in which they re-imagined relationship norms and discussed the various challenges to resisting ingrained hierarchical cis-heteronormativity. This research contributes a greater understanding of how to create equitable and healthy relationships and has important implications for healthcare providers, educators, and policymakers working with queer, transgender, and non-monogamous youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalysha Closson
- Center on Gender Equity and Health, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, USA; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, BC, Canada.
| | - Gem Y Lee
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, BC, Canada
| | - Zoë Osborne
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, BC, Canada
| | - Colby Hangle
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, BC, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of Northern British Columbia, BC, Canada
| | | | - Anita Raj
- Center on Gender Equity and Health, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, USA; Newcomb Institute, Tulane University, LA, USA; Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, LA, USA
| | | | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, BC, Canada
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Sanders M, Tobin JN, Cassells A, Carroll J, Holder T, Thomas M, Fiscella K. Physical and psychosocial impact on peers with HIV co-leading an HIV intervention: A pilot theory-guided case-study. PEC INNOVATION 2023; 2:100139. [PMID: 37214499 PMCID: PMC10194128 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2023.100139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Objective To examine longitudinal changes in activation, HIV health outcomes, and social and psychological determinants of adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among peer trainers with HIV. Methods A multi-method case study. The study population included peers (n = 4) from a randomized controlled trial about peers training patients with HIV (n = 359) to better manage their health. Each peer completed a semi-structured interview that we analyzed using Social Learning Theory (SLT) as a guiding framework. The peers also completed longitudinal surveys about their health after each training cohort (n = 5) over 3-years. Results Peers reported personal benefits from training others with HIV in self-management. Their self-reported activation, self-efficacy and some health outcomes increased overtime. The peers mentioned SLT principles during their interviews. Generally, the peers enjoyed and benefited from training others with HIV in a group-based learning environment. Conclusion Our findings suggest peer leadership can serve as a means for empowerment that is effective at both supporting improvements in health outcomes for patients and for themselves, which may be both scalable and sustainable. Innovation To our knowledge, this is the first mixed-methods study to show reciprocal long-term improvement in health behaviors in a diverse group of peers training others with HIV to self-manage their care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mechelle Sanders
- University of Rochester Medical Center, 1381 South Ave., Rochester, NY 14620, USA
| | - Jonathan N. Tobin
- Clinical Directors Network, Inc. (CDN), 5 West 37 St., 10 Floor, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrea Cassells
- Clinical Directors Network, Inc. (CDN), 5 West 37 St., 10 Floor, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer Carroll
- University of Colorado, 13001 East 17th Place, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Tameir Holder
- Clinical Directors Network, Inc. (CDN), 5 West 37 St., 10 Floor, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marie Thomas
- University of Rochester Medical Center, 1381 South Ave., Rochester, NY 14620, USA
| | - Kevin Fiscella
- University of Rochester Medical Center, 1381 South Ave., Rochester, NY 14620, USA
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Beck McGreevy P, Wood S, Thomson E, Burmeister C, Spence H, Pelletier J, Giesinger W, McDougall J, McLeod R, Hutchison A, Lock K, Norton A, Barker B, Urbanoski K, Slaunwhite A, Nosyk B, Pauly B. Doing community-based research during dual public health emergencies (COVID and overdose). Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:135. [PMID: 37715202 PMCID: PMC10504762 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00852-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Meaningful engagement and partnerships with people who use drugs are essential to conducting research that is relevant and impactful in supporting desired outcomes of drug consumption as well as reducing drug-related harms of overdose and COVID-19. Community-based participatory research is a key strategy for engaging communities in research that directly affects their lives. While there are growing descriptions of community-based participatory research with people who use drugs and identification of key principles for conducting research, there is a gap in relation to models and frameworks to guide research partnerships with people who use drugs. The purpose of this paper is to provide a framework for research partnerships between people who use drugs and academic researchers, collaboratively developed and implemented as part of an evaluation of a provincial prescribed safer supply initiative introduced during dual public health emergencies (overdose and COVID-19) in British Columbia, Canada. The framework shifts from having researchers choose among multiple models (advisory, partnership and employment) to incorporating multiple roles within an overall community-based participatory research approach. Advocacy by and for drug users was identified as a key role and reason for engaging in research. Overall, both academic researchers and Peer Research Associates benefited within this collaborative partnerships approach. Each offered their expertise, creating opportunities for omni-directional learning and enhancing the research. The shift from fixed models to flexible roles allows for a range of involvement that accommodates varying time, energy and resources. Facilitators of involvement include development of trust and partnering with networks of people who use drugs, equitable pay, a graduate-level research assistant dedicated to ongoing orientation and communication, technical supports as well as fluidity in roles and opportunities. Key challenges included working in geographically dispersed locations, maintaining contact and connection over the course of the project and ensuring ongoing sustainable but flexible employment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoenix Beck McGreevy
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Shawn Wood
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Erica Thomson
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
- BCYADWS (BC Yukon Association of Drug War Survivors), Vancouver, Canada
| | - Charlene Burmeister
- PWLLE Stakeholder Engagement Lead, Professionals for Ethical Engagement of Peers (PEEP), BC Centre for Disease Control, Provincial Health Services Authority, Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
- CSUN (Coalition of Substance Users of the North), Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Heather Spence
- KANDU (Knowledging All Nations and Developing Unity), Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Josh Pelletier
- KANDU (Knowledging All Nations and Developing Unity), Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Willow Giesinger
- BCYADWS (BC Yukon Association of Drug War Survivors), Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jenny McDougall
- CSUN (Coalition of Substance Users of the North), Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Rebecca McLeod
- CSUN (Coalition of Substance Users of the North), Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Abby Hutchison
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Kurt Lock
- BCCDC (British Columbia Centre for Disease Control) Harm Reduction Program, 655 West 12Th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Alexa Norton
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
- First Nations Health Authority, Vancouver, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Brittany Barker
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
- First Nations Health Authority, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - Karen Urbanoski
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
- School of Public Health and Social Policy, University of Victoria, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Amanda Slaunwhite
- BCCDC (British Columbia Centre for Disease Control) Harm Reduction Program, 655 West 12Th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada
| | - Bohdan Nosyk
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, Blusson Hall, Room 11300, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Bernie Pauly
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, 2300 McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada.
- School of Nursing, University of Victoria, Box 1700 Stn CSC, Victoria, BC, Canada.
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Maguet S, Laliberte N, Moore L, Milkovich T, Burmeister C, Scow M, Sproule W, Dove N, Martens S. An evaluation of the Compassion, Inclusion, and Engagement initiative: learning from PWLE and communities across British Columbia. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:89. [PMID: 37452328 PMCID: PMC10347729 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00819-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Compassion, Inclusion and Engagement initiative (CIE) was a social contact intervention that operated in British Columbia between 2015 and 2021. The primary objective of CIE was to increase the participation of people with lived experience of substance use (PWLE) in the planning, design, implementation, and evaluation of harm reduction supports and services. CASE PRESENTATION CIE used the developmental evaluation methodology outcome mapping to define and measure progress towards its goals. Developmental evaluation emphasizes learning in contrast to other forms of evaluation which are often more focused on determining the value or success of a project or programme based on predetermined criteria. Outcome mapping is a relational practice which acknowledges that change is achieved by an initiative's partners and the role of the initiative is to provide access to resources, ideas and opportunities that can facilitate and support change. CONCLUSIONS Through the implementation and evaluation of CIE, it became clear that directly supporting PWLE facilitated more meaningful and lasting change than solely working to improve the health and social services that supported them. The impacts of the CIE initiative extend far beyond the outcomes of any of the dialogues it facilitated and are largely the result of an increase in social capital. CIE engagements created the opportunity for change by inviting people most affected by the toxic drug supply together with those committed to supporting them, but their ability to bring about systemic change was limited. Both PWLE and service providers noted the lack of support to attend CIE engagements, lack of support for actions that came from those engagements, and lack of PWLE inclusion in decision-making by health authorities as limiting factors for systemic change. The lack of response at a systemic level often resulted in PWLE carrying the burden of responding to toxic drug poisonings, often without resources, support, or compensation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Maguet
- Provincial Health Services Authority, Vancouver, Canada.
| | | | - Laura Moore
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | | | - Marnie Scow
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Naomi Dove
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
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Taffere GR, Abebe HT, Zerihun Z, Mallen C, Price HP, Mulugeta A. Systematic review of community engagement approach in research: describing partnership approaches, challenges and benefits. J Public Health (Oxf) 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s10389-022-01799-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
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Annand PJ, Platt L, Rathod SD, Hosseini P, Guise A. 'Progression capitals': How homeless health peer advocacy impacts peer advocates. Soc Sci Med 2022; 298:114770. [PMID: 35240541 PMCID: PMC9005785 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.114770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This article presents analysis from a qualitative evaluation of a homeless health peer advocacy (HHPA) service in London, United Kingdom. Whilst evidence is growing for the impact of peer programming on clients, understanding of the impact on peers themselves is limited in the context of homelessness. Research here is vital for supporting sustainable and effective programmes. Analysis of interview data with 14 current and former peer advocates, 2 members of staff and 3 external stakeholders suggests peer advocacy and its organizational setting can generate social, human, cultural and physical resources to help peer advocates fulfil their own life goals. We explore these with reference to ‘recovery capital’, reframed as ‘progression capitals’ to reflect its relevance for pursuits unrelated to clinical understandings of recovery. Progression capitals can be defined as resources to pursue individually determined goals relating to self-fulfilment. We find engagement with, and benefits from, a peer advocacy service is most feasible among individuals already possessing some ‘progression capital’. We discuss the value of progression capitals for peers alongside the implications of the role being unsalaried within a neoliberal political economy, and comment on the value that the progression capitals framework offers for the development and assessment of peer interventions more broadly. HHPA can support advocates to ‘recover’ from health issues and fulfil self-defined life goals. Reframing ‘recovery capital’ as ‘progression capitals’ better captures HHPA's impact on peers. Progression capitals are resources to pursue self-determined goals relating to fulfilment. Organizations should maximize the progression capitals such programmes can enable for peers. Progression capitals offer a framework for developing/assessing peer programmes across sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- P J Annand
- King's College London, United Kingdom; University of Surrey, United Kingdom.
| | - Lucy Platt
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Sujit D Rathod
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Paniz Hosseini
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
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7
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Fernando S, Hawkins J, Kniseley M, Sikora M, Robson J, Snyder D, Battle C, Salmon A. The Overdose Crisis and Using Alone: Perspectives of People Who Use Drugs in Rural and Semi-Urban Areas of British Columbia. Subst Use Misuse 2022; 57:1864-1872. [PMID: 36096482 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2022.2120361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Background: A significant rise in the rate of overdose deaths in British Columbia (BC), driven by fentanyl contamination of the illicit drug supply, led to the declaration of a public health emergency in 2016. Those at greatest risk of death are people who use alone. This community-based participatory action research study based in the Fraser East region of BC study aimed to overview underlying factors that contribute to unwitnessed overdoses in semi-urban and rural settings. Methods: This descriptive study used a community-based participatory action research model with peer research associates (PRAs) involved at various research stages. In total, 22 interviews were conducted with participants aged 19 and over who used illicit drugs in the Fraser East since the start of the public health emergency in 2016. A collaborative data analysis approach was taken for data interpretation, and content analysis was performed to explore themes surrounding using alone. Results: Among people who use drugs (PWUD), using alone was found to be influenced by (a) the availability of drugs and personal funds, (b) personal safety, (c) stigma and shame, (d) protecting privacy, (e) mental health conditions and addiction, and (f) the lack of engagement with harm reduction services. At times, using alone was due to unforeseen, episode-specific situations. Conclusion: A multi-dimentional and context-specific approach is needed in overdose prevention and response for people who use drugs alone. There is need for enhanced approaches that address or include support services for families to reduce stigma and isolation of those at risk of an overdose.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Hawkins
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences.,Fraser Health Authority
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Amy Salmon
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences.,University of British Columbia
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8
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Greer A, Buxton JA, Pauly B, Bungay V. Organizational support for frontline harm reduction and systems navigation work among workers with living and lived experience: qualitative findings from British Columbia, Canada. Harm Reduct J 2021; 18:60. [PMID: 34090473 PMCID: PMC8179702 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-021-00507-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The inclusion of people with lived and living experience of substance use is essential to effective and client-centered harm reduction services and strategies. The aim of this study is to critically examine and characterize peer worker roles and the definition, recognition, and support for these roles within harm reduction organizations. METHODS Fifteen interviews were conducted with peer workers-people with lived and living experience of substance use engaged in harm reduction service delivery-in British Columbia, Canada. An interpretive descriptive approach to data analysis was used to generate themes that best illustrated the roles of peer workers. FINDINGS Two interrelated and overarching themes are presented: (1) peer work in practice; (2) organizational support. Our findings illustrate that peer work is incredibly complex and demanding, requiring peers to be at the forefront of support within their communities while simultaneously navigating the oppressive structures within which they work. While peer workers found a high degree of purpose and meaning in their day-to-day work, their roles lacked definition within organizations, which produced feelings of ineffectiveness and being undervalued. A lack of organizational understanding and recognition of their roles was evident from unclear "peer" role titles, a lack of role communication and expectations, the representation of experiential knowledge, and a lack of role support and training. CONCLUSIONS These findings may help harm reduction organizations understand peer work and worker roles which may inform and promote equity in future harm reduction initiatives that include people with living and lived experience of substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Greer
- School of Criminology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.
| | - J A Buxton
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - B Pauly
- School of Nursing, University of Victoria, PO Box 1700 STN CSC, Victoria, BC, V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - V Bungay
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, T201-2211 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 2B5, Canada
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Bever A, Salters K, Tam C, Moore DM, Sereda P, Wang L, Wesseling T, Grieve S, Bingham B, Barrios R. Cohort profile: the STOP HIV/AIDS Program Evaluation (SHAPE) study in British Columbia, Canada. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e033649. [PMID: 32404387 PMCID: PMC7228510 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-033649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The Seek and Treat for Optimal Prevention of HIV/AIDS (STOP HIV/AIDS) Program Evaluation (SHAPE) study is a longitudinal cohort developed to monitor the progress of an HIV testing and treatment expansion programme across the province of British Columbia (BC). The study considers how sociostructural determinants such as gender, age, sexual identity, geography, income and ethnicity influence engagement in HIV care. PARTICIPANTS Between January 2016 and September 2018, 644 BC residents who were at least 19 years old and diagnosed with HIV were enrolled in the study and completed a baseline survey. Participants will complete two additional follow-up surveys (18 months apart) about their HIV care experiences, with clinical follow-up ongoing. FINDINGS TO DATE Analyses on baseline data have found high levels of HIV care engagement and treatment success among SHAPE participants, with 95% of participants receiving antiretroviral therapy and 90% having achieved viral suppression. However, persistent disparities in HIV treatment outcomes related to age, injection drug use and housing stability have been identified and require further attention when delivering services to marginalised groups. FUTURE PLANS Our research will examine how engagement in HIV care evolves over time, continuing to identify barriers and facilitators for promoting equitable access to treatment and care among people living with HIV. A qualitative research project, currently in the formative phase, will compliment quantitative analyses by taking a strengths-based approach to exploring experiences of engagement and re-engagement in HIV treatment among individuals who have experienced delayed treatment initiation or treatment interruptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Bever
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kate Salters
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Clara Tam
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - D M Moore
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Paul Sereda
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lu Wang
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Tim Wesseling
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sean Grieve
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Brittany Bingham
- Aboriginal Health Program, Vancouver Coastal Health Authority, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rolando Barrios
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Vancouver Community Health Services, Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Kaida A, Carter A, Nicholson V, Lemay J, O'Brien N, Greene S, Tharao W, Proulx-Boucher K, Gormley R, Benoit A, Bernier M, Thomas-Pavanel J, Lewis J, de Pokomandy A, Loutfy M. Hiring, training, and supporting Peer Research Associates: Operationalizing community-based research principles within epidemiological studies by, with, and for women living with HIV. Harm Reduct J 2019; 16:47. [PMID: 31319894 PMCID: PMC6637632 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-019-0309-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A community-based research (CBR) approach is critical to redressing the exclusion of women-particularly, traditionally marginalized women including those who use substances-from HIV research participation and benefit. However, few studies have articulated their process of involving and engaging peers, particularly within large-scale cohort studies of women living with HIV where gender, cultural and linguistic diversity, HIV stigma, substance use experience, and power inequities must be navigated. METHODS Through our work on the Canadian HIV Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health Cohort Study (CHIWOS), Canada's largest community-collaborative longitudinal cohort of women living with HIV (n = 1422), we developed a comprehensive, regionally tailored approach for hiring, training, and supporting women living with HIV as Peer Research Associates (PRAs). To reflect the diversity of women with HIV in Canada, we initially hired 37 PRAs from British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec, prioritizing women historically under-represented in research, including women who use or have used illicit drugs, and women living with HIV of other social identities including Indigenous, racialized, LGBTQ2S, and sex work communities, noting important points of intersection between these groups. RESULTS Building on PRAs' lived experience, research capacity was supported through a comprehensive, multi-phase, and evidence-based experiential training curriculum, with mentorship and support opportunities provided at various stages of the study. Challenges included the following: being responsive to PRAs' diversity; ensuring PRAs' health, well-being, safety, and confidentiality; supporting PRAs to navigate shifting roles in their community; and ensuring sufficient time and resources for the translation of materials between English and French. Opportunities included the following: mutual capacity building of PRAs and researchers; community-informed approaches to study the processes and challenges; enhanced recruitment of harder-to-reach populations; and stronger community partnerships facilitating advocacy and action on findings. CONCLUSIONS Community-collaborative studies are key to increasing the relevance and impact potential of research. For women living with HIV to participate in and benefit from HIV research, studies must foster inclusive, flexible, safe, and reciprocal approaches to PRA engagement, employment, and training tailored to regional contexts and women's lives. Recommendations for best practice are offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall Room 10522, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.
| | - Allison Carter
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall Room 10522, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.,British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Valerie Nicholson
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall Room 10522, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.,Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Positive Living British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jo Lemay
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall Room 10522, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Nadia O'Brien
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Saara Greene
- School of Social Work, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Karène Proulx-Boucher
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Rebecca Gormley
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall Room 10522, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.,British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Anita Benoit
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mélina Bernier
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jamie Thomas-Pavanel
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Johanna Lewis
- Department of History, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alexandra de Pokomandy
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mona Loutfy
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Brown G, Crawford S, Perry GE, Byrne J, Dunne J, Reeders D, Corry A, Dicka J, Morgan H, Jones S. Achieving meaningful participation of people who use drugs and their peer organizations in a strategic research partnership. Harm Reduct J 2019; 16:37. [PMID: 31182099 PMCID: PMC6558880 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-019-0306-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Peer-led programs with people who use drugs (PWUD) have been a key characteristic of the harm reduction in many countries, including their involvement in research. However, peer involvement in research is often limited to recruitment, consultation, and reporting back, rather than a genuine collaboration in the priority setting, design, and conduct of research. PWUD peer organizations face ongoing challenges to demonstrate the depth of their knowledge of current and emerging issues within drug-using networks and the value of their peer insights for effective research and policy. The identification of benefits, barriers, and enablers for meaningful participation of PWUD in research has often been limited to methodological rather than system level factors. Methods This paper draws on the experiences and findings of the What Works and Why (W3) Project, a 5-year collaborative study with peer organizations. The study drew on systems thinking methods to develop a framework to demonstrate the role of peer organizations within their community and policy systems. The study required peer staff and researchers to undertake the simultaneous role of drivers, participants, and analysts in the research. To identify the learnings in relation to meaningful participation of PWUD peer organizations in research, we drew together the insights and experiences of peer staff and researchers across the 5 years of the study Results The W3 Project provided insights into the nuances of community-engaged research practice and the ongoing benefits, barriers, and enablers to the meaningful participation of PWUD and their peer organizations. These included system-level barriers and enablers beyond individual research projects or methodology. The capacity of research and peer organizations to maintain meaningful peer participation in research can be restricted or enhanced by the systems in which they are embedded. Conclusions Recognizing peer organizations as active participants and drivers within community and policy systems can help clarify their unique and critical role in research. Achieving meaningful collaboration with PWUD peer organizations requires looking beyond good practice methods to the system-level factors with attention to the system-level benefits, barriers, and enablers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham Brown
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, 3086, Australia.
| | - Sione Crawford
- Harm Reduction Victoria, PO Box 12720, A'Beckett Street, Melbourne, 8006, Australia
| | - Gari-Emma Perry
- Peer-Based Harm Reduction WA, PO Box 8003, Perth, WA, 6849, Australia
| | - Jude Byrne
- Australian Injecting & Illicit Drug Users League, GPO Box 1555, ACT, Canberra, 2601, Australia
| | - James Dunne
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Daniel Reeders
- School of Regulation and Global Governance, Australian National University, ACT, Canberra, 2600, Australia
| | - Angela Corry
- Peer-Based Harm Reduction WA, PO Box 8003, Perth, WA, 6849, Australia
| | - Jane Dicka
- Harm Reduction Victoria, PO Box 12720, A'Beckett Street, Melbourne, 8006, Australia
| | - Hunter Morgan
- Harm Reduction Victoria, PO Box 12720, A'Beckett Street, Melbourne, 8006, Australia
| | - Sam Jones
- Harm Reduction Victoria, PO Box 12720, A'Beckett Street, Melbourne, 8006, Australia
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Greer AM, Pauly B, Scott A, Martin R, Burmeister C, Buxton J. Paying people who use illicit substances or ‘peers’ participating in community-based work: a narrative review of the literature. DRUGS-EDUCATION PREVENTION AND POLICY 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/09687637.2018.1494134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alissa Merielle Greer
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Bernadette Pauly
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
| | - Alex Scott
- Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Ruth Martin
- College of Health Disciplines, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Jane Buxton
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Jozaghi E, Greer AM, Lampkin H, Buxton JA. Activism and scientific research: 20 years of community action by the Vancouver area network of drug users. SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT PREVENTION AND POLICY 2018; 13:18. [PMID: 29788975 PMCID: PMC5964704 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-018-0158-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Background Over the past several decades, there have been numerous peer-reviewed articles written about people who use drugs (PWUDs) from the Downtown Eastside neighborhood of Vancouver, Canada. While individual researchers have engaged and acknowledged this population as participants and community partners in their work, there has been comparatively little attention given to the role of PWUDs and drug user organizations in directing, influencing, and shaping research agendas. Methods In this community-driven research, we examine 20 years of peer-reviewed studies, university theses, books, and reports that have been directed, influenced, and shaped by members of the activist organization the Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users (VANDU). In this paper, we have summarized VANDU’s work based on different themes from each article. Results After applying the inclusion criteria to over 400 articles, 59 items containing peer-reviewed studies, books, and reports were included and three themes of topics researched or discussed were identified. Theme 1: ‘health needs’ of marginalized groups was found in 39% of articles, Theme 2: ‘evaluation of projects’ related to harm reduction in 19%, and Theme 3: ‘activism’ related work in 42%. Ninety-four percent of co-authors were from British Columbia and 44% of research was qualitative. Works that have been co-authored by VANDU’s members or acknowledged their participations created 628 citations. Moreover, their work has been accessed more than 149,600 times. Conclusions Peer-based, democratic harm reduction organizations are important partners in facilitating groundbreaking health and social research, and through research can advocate for the improved health and wellbeing of PWUDs and other marginalized groups in their community. This article also recommends that PWUDs should be more respectfully engaged and given appropriate credit for their contributions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Jozaghi
- The British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada. .,The School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Alissa M Greer
- The British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada.,The School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Hugh Lampkin
- Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users, 380 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC, V6A 1P4, Canada
| | - Jane A Buxton
- The British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4R4, Canada.,The School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
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