HIV + Service Delivery and Telemedicine Through Effective PROs

HIV + Service Delivery and Telemedicine Through Effective PROs (+STEP)

This study will examine the impact of using a multicomponent intervention (patient reported outcomes, training, and telemedicine) to assist with the management of Mental Health (MH) and Substance Use Disorders (SUD) among people living with HIV (PLWH) engaged in care at UAB HIV Clinic, University of Alabama Family Clinic (Birmingham, AL), Thrive Federally Qualified Health Services Center (Huntsville), Health Services Center (Anniston), and Medical Advocacy and Outreach (Montgomery). The study will employ a hybrid type 2 implementation design. Because this intervention will be employed as the new standard of care at participating sites, all PLWH receiving care at the sites will receive this intervention. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) will be integrated into routine care to screen PLWH for substance use and mental health disorders during routine clinical encounters. Training will be delivered to frontline clinicians so that they receive targeted knowledge on best practices for treatment of MH and SUD along with clinic-specific protocols for response to PROs on MH and SUD including treatment and referrals. Telemedicine services for MH and SUD will be offered to patients in need of expanded access to services due to a lack of clinic-level resources or additional barriers to traditional clinic visits such transportation, stigma, or substance using behaviors.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years or older and receiving HIV care at one of the five participating sites

Exclusion Criteria:

• Below 18 years of age