EXPERTS PERSPECTIVES ON DIGITAL HEALTH INTERVENTION TO IMPROVE HIV SELF-TESTING AND FACILITATE LINKAGE TO CARE (Preprint)
Résumé
BACKGROUND HIV remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite advancements in HIV testing, substantial proportions of the population remain unaware of their HIV status, hindering efforts to achieve the 95-95-95 targets set by UNAIDS. Barriers to conventional facility-based HIV testing, such as stigma and accessibility issues persist, especially among hard-to-reach groups. Non-invasive HIV self-testing (HIVST) has emerged as a potential solution, but concerns about linkage to care after testing is an ongoing challenge. Integrating digital health solutions into HIVST has been proposed to enhance engagement and facilitate self-management. OBJECTIVE This qualitative study design, guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), explored the perspectives of global experts and practitioners in HIV research and digital health interventions. METHODS Key informant interviews using a semi-structured interview guide were conducted with 17 experts from diverse professional backgrounds, including medical doctors, researchers, community affairs leaders, HIV technical advisors, and data analytics specialists. Participants were purposively sampled and interviewed between March and April 2024, with data analyzed thematically. RESULTS The study identified multifaceted factors influencing the successful implementation of digital health interventions in the context of HIVST. Participant responses encompassed a range of CFIR constructs including characteristics of the intervention, inner and outer settings, individual characteristics, and the process of implementation. Participants emphasized the need for high-quality interventions that meet healthcare standards and user needs, ensuring accessibility, user-friendliness, and cultural relevance. CONCLUSIONS This study contributes to understanding the perspectives of experts within the digital health ecosystem regarding digital health intervention to enhance HIVST. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing nuanced challenges to ensure effective digital health integration. Insights gained can inform the development of inclusive and tailored digital health solutions, advancing HIV prevention and care efforts on a global scale. Ethical considerations were prioritized throughout the study, ensuring participant consent and confidentiality. CLINICALTRIAL
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