title: Linking peers, patients, and providers: a qualitative study of a peer integration program for hard-to-reach patients living with HIV/AIDS.
abstract: For HIV-positive individuals living in socially vulnerable circumstances, the complexities of accessing and navigating healthcare system can be overwhelming. Peer-driven interventions (PDIs) are increasingly being recognized as effective ways of addressing barriers to HIV care in the USA. The present study is a qualitative investigation of barriers, challenges, and facilitators to implementation of a peer integration program at three health centers in the USA. Findings reveal that health center staff and HIV-positive patients support the integration of HIV-positive peers on multidisciplinary healthcare teams. However, challenges related to peer-clinician communication and the risk of emotional burnout for peers may hinder program efficacy and sustainability. Practical implications and suggestions for improving the peer integration program in light of these findings are also discussed.
authors: Cicatelli Associates Inc., Research and Evaluation, NY, USA. rhallum-montes@cicatelli.org
authors: Rachel
authors: R
authors: Hallum-Montes
authors: Sera
authors: S
authors: Morgan
authors: Helen M
authors: HM
authors: Rovito
authors: Cornell
authors: C
authors: Wrisby
authors: Michael P
authors: MP
authors: Anastario
mesh_terms: D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000628:therapy; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000628:therapy*; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D033183:Interdisciplinary Communication; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D010379:Peer Group; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D012944:Social Support; D014481:United States