Recruitment of HIV positive and negative women in Puerto Rico: the experiences of a research team.
BACKGROUND
Women with HIV positive status are considered a hard to reach population by many. We discuss the experiences of a research team while conducting the recruiting process with both Hispanic Puerto Rican HIV positive and HIV negative populations.


OBJECTIVE
To provide strategies and recommendations for conducting research interventions with HIV+ and HIV- women.


METHODS
This study explored the communication skills between HIV+ and HIV-mothers and their adolescent daughters regarding disclosure of their status, and the discussion, or lack of, on topics related to sexuality and prevention of HIV/AIDS. This study explored the recruitment, retention and intervention processes of a qualitative research study that used focus groups to understand the communication skills between HIV+ and HIV-mothers and their adolecent daughters regarding disclosure of their status, and the discussion, or lack of, on topics related to sexuality and prevention of HIV/AIDS. The goal of this team was to describe the diverse factors and dynamics that influence the process of recruitment and retention when conducting research.


RESULTS
The process of recruitment entails not only the action but the planning of the interventions with both the community and the participants. Minority women and the HIV positive population have many difficulties complying with study procedures such as attendance and transportation, among other issues. We describe the importance of constant communication with the centers' coordinators and prospective participants about the process of planning and recruiting.


CONCLUSIONS
The significance of flexibility within the research team and recognizing the particular characteristics of conducting research with minorities and women with and without HIV+ status should be emphasized. Researchers should recognize that many of the HIV+ women have been exposed to previous studies. In addition, the general population should be informed about the importance of participating in research studies.
Puerto Rico Comprehensive Center for the Study of HIV Disparities, Ponce School of Medicine, Universidad Central del Caribe. tenan29@yahoo.com
Nanet M
NM
Lopez-Cordova
Wanda I
WI
Figueroa-Cosme
José A
JA
Capriles
D035843:Biomedical Research; D018023:HIV Seronegativity; D006679:HIV Seropositivity / Q000208:ethnology; D006630:Hispanic or Latino; D006801:Humans; D018579:Patient Selection; D011647:Puerto Rico; D036301:Qualitative Research