Using telehealth to help people who inject drugs start HIV treatment quickly
Tele-Harm Reduction for Rapid Initiation of Antiretrovirals in People who Inject Drugs: a Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is looking at how using telehealth can help people who inject drugs get better access to HIV treatment through special programs, making it easier for them to start and stick with their medication in South Florida, where HIV is a big concern.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| 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-10237636 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how telehealth can improve access to HIV treatment for people who inject drugs (PWID) through syringe services programs. By utilizing a harm reduction approach, the study aims to provide essential medical services and support to this vulnerable population, particularly in South Florida, where HIV incidence is high. Participants will receive care through a free clinic that integrates telehealth services, making it easier for them to initiate antiretroviral therapy and achieve viral suppression. The program is designed to engage PWID in their healthcare and improve health outcomes in a community that has faced significant health disparities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who inject drugs and are living with HIV, particularly those in South Florida.
Not a fit: Patients who do not inject drugs or are not living with HIV may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve access to HIV treatment and health outcomes for people who inject drugs.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success with telehealth interventions in improving healthcare access, particularly in marginalized communities, making this approach promising.
Where this research is happening
Coral Gables, United States
- University of Miami School of Medicine — Coral Gables, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tookes, Hansel Emory — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Tookes, Hansel Emory
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.