Increasing access to HIV testing and prevention through social networks
Test-to-PrEP: A Randomized Hybrid Implementation/Effectiveness Trial of a Social Network Strategy to Increase Equitable Reach of HIV Testing and PrEP Information
This study is exploring a new way to help people get HIV self-testing kits and information about PrEP by having current PrEP users share these resources with their friends and family, and it’s aimed at reaching communities in Miami-Dade County that are at higher risk for HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11007617 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to enhance the distribution of HIV self-testing kits and information about PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) by leveraging the social networks of current PrEP clients. Participants will be involved in a trial where they will either distribute HIV self-tests directly to their friends and family or refer them to resources without direct distribution. The study aims to assess how effective this method is in reaching communities at high risk for HIV, particularly in Miami-Dade County, which has one of the highest rates of new HIV diagnoses in the U.S. The trial will also evaluate the costs and resources needed for implementation, ensuring diverse representation among participants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals currently using PrEP who are part of social networks in communities with high HIV incidence.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently at risk for HIV or those who do not have access to social networks may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase the number of individuals tested for HIV and informed about PrEP, leading to better prevention strategies in high-risk communities.
How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot projects have shown promise in using social networks to improve HIV prevention efforts, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Coral Gables, United States
- University of Miami School of Medicine — Coral Gables, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Doblecki-Lewis, Susanne — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Doblecki-Lewis, Susanne
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 below.