HIV prevention technology transfer: challenges and strategies in the real world.
OBJECTIVE
We examined implementation of evidence-based interventions for HIV prevention at community-based organizations in Los Angeles County, CA.


METHODS
We conducted 2 waves of interviews with 34 organization staff members. We analyzed activities reported by staff in the phases (preimplementation, implementation, and maintenance and evolution) and activities defined by the technology transfer model for evidence-based HIV prevention interventions.


RESULTS
Staff members were able to select, adapt, and implement evidence-based HIV prevention interventions despite challenges in each phase of technology transfer. Preimplementation challenges included lack of information and poor fit between the interventions and organizations' clients. Implementation challenges included retention of participants across intervention sessions and staff turnover. A challenge in the maintenance and evolution phase was enhancing staff skills in outcome monitoring and cost analyses.


CONCLUSIONS
Technical assistance must be matched to the specific challenges found in each phase of technology transfer. Successful transfer of evidence-based HIV prevention interventions will depend on their continued uptake and use by organization staff. This study highlights directions for improving communications regarding appropriate modifications to these interventions and for organizational planning to continue adapted interventions.
Veniegas
Rosemary C
RC
Center for HIV Identification, Prevention, and Treatment Services, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA. rveniegas@mednet.ucla.edu
Kao
Uyen H
UH
Rosales
Ricardo
R
Arellanes
Melissa
M
D002140:California; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000635:transmission; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D013677:Medical Laboratory Science / Q000639:trends*; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D011634:Public Health; D018581:Technology Transfer