How can we leverage community platforms for HIV prevention, treatment, and care?

U. S. Agency for International Development

 

As the number of people on antiretroviral treatment grows, the health systems of high HIV prevalence countries struggle with retaining patients in care and providing quality services. This is becoming particularly challenging as countries roll out “test and start”, resulting in more people being put on treatment as soon as they are diagnosed as HIV-positive. There is growing evidence that community-based HIV care models can both increase patient retention and reduce the burden on facility staff as well as patients. Extending care beyond the traditional clinic approach can include community counseling and support, adherence clubs, delivery of medication refills, and basic clinical evaluations.

 

Project SOAR is contributing to the evidence base by evaluating HIV prevention interventions that use community platforms to change harmful gender norms, reduce gender-based violence, empower adolescent girls and young women, and increase health-seeking behavior. We are also conducting research to assess treatment and care models that utilize community platforms for different groups, including female sex workers, pregnant women, orphans and other vulnerable children, and the general population. Results from SOAR studies will help high HIV burden countries in tapping community resources to meet the growing demand for HIV prevention, treatment, and care services.

 

Activities

Prevention

 

HIV care and treatment