Using HIV self-testing to improve engagement in HIV services for people who inject drugs
Official title: Prevention Ambassadors: an HIV self-testing intervention to promote HIV service engagement in the networks of SSP clients
Funded at San Diego State University · NIH-11030315 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about making it easier for people who inject drugs to get tested for HIV by giving them self-testing kits through local syringe programs, so they can test privately and get connected to helpful services in Riverside County, California.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | San Diego State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $228,260 |
| NIH project number | 5R34DA058389-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030315 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who inject drugs and are part of syringe service programs in Riverside County, California.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not inject drugs or are not engaged with syringe service programs may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance HIV testing and service engagement among people who inject drugs (PWID) by implementing a program that distributes HIV self-testing kits through syringe service programs. The approach focuses on addressing barriers such as stigma and limited access to healthcare by empowering individuals to test for HIV discreetly and conveniently. Participants will receive not only the testing kits but also information and referrals to local HIV services, fostering a supportive network for those at risk. The project is based in Riverside County, California, and leverages existing community partnerships to maximize outreach and effectiveness.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase HIV testing rates and improve access to care for individuals at high risk of HIV infection.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that peer-driven interventions and self-testing strategies can effectively increase HIV testing rates among high-risk populations.
Where this research is happening
-
San Diego State University
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pines, Heather Alisa — San Diego State University
- Study coordinator: Pines, Heather Alisa
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.