Improving linkages to HIV care with an online support tool in South Florida
Official title: Improving the reach of HIV-relevant clinical interventions using an online adjunctive intervention in South Florida HIV self-testing programs
Funded at University of Miami Coral Gables · NIH-11425965 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A tailored online tool helps people in South Florida find HIV-related services (PrEP, PEP, ART) and mental health or substance-use support so they stay engaged with care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami Coral Gables NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | August 18, 2026 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $653,743 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI205725-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11425965 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People in South Florida who participate in HIV self-testing programs and are seeking PrEP, PEP, ART, or related mental health/substance-use services.
✕Less likely to help
People not using HIV self-testing programs or not seeking HIV-related services may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project will build on an existing local network called JUNTOS to centralize information about HIV services and connect people using HIV self-testing with next-step care. The team will develop and test an online app and website that guide users to PrEP, PEP, ART, and mental health or substance-use treatment, with a focus on improving reach and coordination. The approach emphasizes real-world use in South Florida communities, with partnerships that run local clinics and public health programs. If successful, the tool could help people navigate care more easily and increase uptake of effective HIV interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the tool could help more people access HIV prevention and treatment services and improve overall health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous efforts show online referral networks can improve linkage to care, but contextual success in South Florida remains to be demonstrated.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami Coral Gables
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harkness, Audrey — University of Miami Coral Gables
- Study coordinator: Harkness, Audrey
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.