Black and Latino Persons Living with HIV Evidence Risk and Resilience in the Context of COVID-19: A Mixed-Methods Study of the Early Phase of the Pandemic

HIV Clinic Visit Attendance Among People With HIV Aged 50+ Years: Exploring the Role of Increasing Age, Comorbidity Burden, and the COVID-19 Pandemic

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of advancing age, comorbidity burden, and the COVID-19 pandemic on HIV clinic visit attendance.

STUDY SETTING AND DESIGN

We implemented a repeated cross-sectional study using an ongoing longitudinal cohort of people with HIV (PWH) receiving care in Washington, DC.

DATA SOURCES AND ANALYTIC SAMPLE

Our primary exposures of interest were older age categories (60-69 and 70+ compared with 50-59 years), Veterans Aging Cohort Study (VACS) Index (surrogate for comorbidity burden), calendar year (with the three time points of 2018, 2020, and 2022 representing pre-, peri- and post-COVID). Our outcome was the number of HIV clinic visits (including telehealth) in 2018, 2020, and 2022. Associations were assessed using zero-inflated negative binomial modeling.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

4041 (72.7% men, 59.3% ages 50-59; 78.8% Black) DC Cohort participants aged 50+ years were included. In 2018, mean VACS indices for participants aged 50-59, 60-69, and 70+ years were 27.5 (standard deviation [SD] 15.8), 36.9 (SD 17.8), and 50.7 (SD 15.5) respectively. Increase in VACS Index was associated with increase in HIV clinic visits (Rate ratio: 1.03, 95% CI 1.01, 1.05). A VACS Index-calendar year interaction term was significant, indicating the relationship between VACS Index and visits was attenuated in the post-COVID time period. All age groups experienced a decrease in visits from 2018 to 2022. HIV RNA suppression remained stable.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings underscore the pandemic's impact on accessing healthcare among the most vulnerable, that is, the oldest participants with the most comorbidities. Developing differential care models for PWH to target services to their local context, clinical status, and preferences may point to a broader public health approach to mitigate post-pandemic changes in HIV care utilization.

Communication and Connection Fostered Care Engagement During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study of People Living With HIV in New York City

ABSTRACT

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted health care systems and resulted in some delays of care, challenging health care engagement among people living with HIV (PLWH). Using in-depth interviews, we explored the experiences of PLWH during the pandemic and identified barriers to and facilitators of care engagement. We recruited 40 participants from a managed-care Medicaid plan in New York City and conducted phone interviews during fall 2023. Thematic analysis identified 5 themes related to care engagement during the pandemic: (a) health care system strains led to some delays in care; (b) patient-provider connections suffered; (c) the pandemic led to personal crises and challenges to care engagement; (d) strong communication and connection reduced disruption and stress; and (e) the pandemic had a lasting effect on interpersonal connections. These findings highlight ways to help maintain care engagement among PLWH even during social and public health crises and contribute to ending the epidemic.

Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the HIV Care Continuum and Associated Factors in High-Income Nations: A Mixed-Methods Systematic Review

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the HIV care continuum (HCC), presenting challenges while also driving positive transformations globally. This study examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on HCC in high-income countries, aiming to identify barriers and facilitators to care delivery amidst global health challenges. This study employs JBI mixed-methods systematic review methodology. The search strategy included CINAHL, OVID-Medline, CAB Direct, and OVID-Embase databases and manual citation review. After systematic screening and data extraction, quality assessment was performed, and integrated findings were presented. A systematic search of online databases retrieved 20,305 records, with 14,600 unique records screened after removing duplicates; 607 full-text articles were reviewed, and 88 studies meeting eligibility criteria were included in the final analysis. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted various aspects of the HIV care continuum, posing challenges in testing, prevention, appointments, adherence, linkage to care, viral suppression, and treatment engagement. However, the pandemic has also spurred positive changes, notably through the widespread adoption of telemedicine, enhancing access to care and support services. Efforts to mitigate structural barriers, enhance access to care, and promote ART adherence are essential to ensure continuity of care and mitigate long-term consequences. Tailored interventions for vulnerable populations and addressing disparities in care access are crucial for fostering equitable HIV care delivery.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Social Support Networks of Gay and Bisexual Men with HIV in New York City

The COVID-19 pandemic, and the ensuing social policies enacted to control viral transmission of SARS-CoV-2, has had a significant impact on social support networks. For people living with HIV (PWH), including gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), social support networks serve additional purposes in the self-management of HIV care and psychosocial health. Given the broad-reaching effects of the pandemic, characterizing its impact on specific dimensions of social support networks remains a prime area of investigation. We used egocentric social network data from an on-going longitudinal study of GBMSM with HIV, living in New York City (NYC), to examine changes in the structural, interactional, and functional characteristics of their social support networks from pre- to post-start of the pandemic. We analyzed data from 146 GBMSM who reported a total of 164 social support network members. We found that the average size of social support member networks increased over time, of which 57% and 25% provided companionship and confidant support, respectively. Follow-up questions about how often guidance, tangible, and emotional support was provided (if needed) suggest the quality of support decreased over time. At follow-up, nearly half (49%) of network members were friends, the vast majority (89%) were aware of GBMSM's HIV status, and most (74%) were also living within NYC. Characterizing the changes in social support networks over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic can help identify areas of need and resilience, especially for key populations such as GBMSM with HIV.

Telehealth or in-person HIV care? Qualitative study findings on decision-making from people with HIV and HIV care providers in South Carolina during the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted HIV care services across the United States. Telehealth was rapidly implemented to ensure HIV care continuity. Despite the evidence of unequal telehealth uptake among some people with HIV (PWH), the decision-making processes to determine who received telehealth or in-person care are under-researched. This study assessed which decision criteria and processes determined which HIV care visit type was used by PWH and HIV care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Qualitative in-depth interviews with 18 PWH and 10 HIV care providers from South Carolina assessed PWHs' and HIV care providers' decision-making criteria and processes for telehealth HIV care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Most PWH (11 out of 18) and all providers had used telehealth for HIV care. To guide visit type decisions, interviewees reported decision-making criteria across four domains: patient-related criteria, clinical criteria, provider preference, and HIV care continuity. Patient-related criteria included patient preference, convenience, fear of COVID-19 exposure and stigma, and transportation barriers. Clinical criteria included the need for a physical exam, a person's care history and health status. While all identified decision criteria were important, we found a hierarchical structure: care continuity superseded other criteria. Some clinical criteria were reported as decision-relevant criteria by providers but not PWH. Most PWH reported that they were included or took the lead in the visit type decision process. Decision-making processes to determine PWHs' HIV care visit types considered criteria across multiple domains. The superseding criteria was to sustain HIV care continuity. To guide future telehealth use, shared decision-making is needed to weigh patient-related, provider-related, and clinical decision criteria and maintain care continuity, and to comprehensively include all relevant decision criteria.

Family Social Support Mediates the Relationship Between the COVID-19 Pandemic and Psychosocial well-being in a Cohort of Young South Africans Newly Diagnosed with HIV

Poor psychosocial well-being, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and high anticipated stigma, complicates young South Africans' engagement with HIV care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the psychosocial well-being of young South Africans with HIV may have been impacted by changing levels of social support. This analysis sought to examine whether social support mediates the relationship between the pandemic and psychosocial well-being in young South Africans with HIV. This secondary analysis compared baseline data from two cohorts of young people ages 18-24 who tested HIV positive either before or during South Africa's COVID-19 State of Disaster. Baseline sociodemographic, social support-related, and psychosocial data were analyzed using linear regression and mediation analyses. We found that self-esteem was higher (χ2 = 9.955, p < 0.01) and anticipated stigma (χ2 = 22.756, p < 0.001) was lower in the cohort recruited during the pandemic. Perceived family social support was higher in the cohort recruited during the COVID-19 pandemic (χ2 = 38.69, p < 0.001). Family social support partially mediated the relationship between study cohort and self-esteem (Sobel z=-3.04, p = 0.002), family- (Sobel z=-4.06, p < 0.001) and community-type (Sobel z =-3.44, p < 0.001) anticipated stigma, and depressive symptoms (Sobel z =-2.80, p = 0.005). Overall, compared to young people diagnosed with HIV before the pandemic, young people diagnosed during the pandemic reported higher self-esteem and lower anticipated stigma, an effect mediated by higher levels of family social support. Our findings add to the literature examining young people's psychosocial well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic and suggests that improvements in family support may have broadly positive effects on multiple indicators of psychosocial well-being.

On the fence: Factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among sexually Minoritized men who use substances in the United States

Objective

Substance use during the COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has exponentially increased among sexually minoritized men (SMM), who are more vulnerable to COVID-19 transmission, morbidity, and mortality than their heterosexual counterparts. Understanding the factors that mediate and are associated with COVID-19 vaccine uptake in a national sample of SMM that use substances may inform targeted interventions to maximize public acceptance.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis was performed using data from a national sample of 2753 SMM in the United States between May 2021-July 2022. We performed a mediation analysis using the Karlson-Holm-Breen method, and factors associated with the likelihood of vaccine uptake were modeled using logistic regression, adjusting for time and age.

Results

The median age of the overall sample was 38.9 years old and mainly comprised of White (n = 511; 57 %), HIV-negative (n = 407; 52 %) SMM who used stimulants (n = 724; 92 %). Compared to their counterparts who abstained from drugs in the past three months, SMM who used methamphetamine (aOR: 0.32, CI: 0.24-0.43) or opioids (aOR: 0.52 CI: 0.40-0.67) had significantly lower odds of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Those who used cocaine in the past 3 months (aOR: 1.44 CI: 1.20-1.73) had significantly greater odds of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine than those who did not. Vaccine hesitancy partially meditated the direct effects of methamphetamine use on vaccine uptake (OR = 0.40; CI: 0.26-0.61]).

Conclusion

The lower vaccination rates among those with a negative HIV status and those who use methamphetamine and opioids warrant attention to inform future vaccination efforts.

COVID-19 Vaccination Uptake, Infection Rates, and Seropositivity Among Youth Experiencing Homelessness in the United States

BACKGROUND

People experiencing homelessness are at greater risk of exposure and poor health outcomes from COVID-19. However, little data exist on the prevalence and correlates of COVID-19 among homeless populations. To mitigate the spread and severity, uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine is needed. This can be challenging among youth experiencing homelessness who are more likely to be unvaccinated when compared to stably housed youth.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted this study to determine the prevalence and correlates of COVID-19 among youth experiencing homelessness.

METHODS

We examined experiences of COVID-19 symptoms, self-report of infection, and rates of COVID-19 antibodies and distinguished between natural and vaccinated immunity among youth experiencing homelessness ( N = 265) recruited in one large metropolitan area in the south.

RESULTS

Based on self-report, very few participants experienced any symptoms, and 80% had never been diagnosed with COVID-19. Of those with COVID-19 antibodies (68%), the proportion with antibodies resulting from natural infection was 44%. The vaccination rate was 42%. Younger and vaccinated participants and those in shelters were likelier to have COVID-19 antibodies. Black and Hispanic youth were more likely than White youth to have had COVID-19. Those who adopted only one or two prevention behaviors were more likely to acquire a natural infection than those who adopted three or more prevention behaviors.

DISCUSSION

Youth experiencing homelessness report low vaccination rates, disrupted access to healthcare and social supports, and underlying chronic conditions, which may explain why they face poorer outcomes when infected with COVID-19. Vaccination and risk mitigation strategies to combat the high prevalence of COVID-19 are especially needed for sheltered youth who are at high risk yet are often asymptomatic.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and viral suppression among persons living with HIV in western Washington

The COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing measures elevated stress levels globally, exacerbating mental health challenges for people with HIV (PWH). We examined the effect of COVID-19-related stress on mental health among PWH in western Washington, exploring whether social support and coping self-efficacy were protective. Data on COVID-19-related stress, mental health, social support, and coping self-efficacy were collected using online surveys during the pandemic. Pre-COVID-19 mental health data were available for a subset of participants and were linked with the survey data. In the total sample (N = 373), COVID-19-stress was associated with elevated depression (PHQ-8, β = 0.21, 95%CI [0.10, 0.32]) and anxiety (GAD-7, β = 0.28, 95%CI [0.17, 0.39]). Among the subset of respondents with pre-pandemic mental health data (N = 103), COVID-19-related stress was associated with elevated PHQ-8 scores (β = 0.35, 95%CI [0.15, 0.56]) and GAD-7 scores (β = 0.35, 95%CI [0.16, 0.54]), adjusted for baseline mental health and other confounders. Coping self-efficacy was negatively associated with GAD-7 scores (β = -0.01, 95%CI [-0.01, 0.00]), while social support was negatively associated with PHQ-8 scores (β = -0.06, 95%CI [-0.12, -0.01]). Viral suppression before and during the pandemic did not differ among participants with available data. While COVID-19-related stress predicted elevated depression and anxiety symptoms among PWH, social support and coping self-efficacy were protective.

Repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on the HIV care continuum and related factors in economically disadvantaged nations: an integrated analysis using mixed-methods systematic review

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic affected the self-management and care of people living with HIV, requiring adaptations in the way health services are provided. However, it is unclear how these changes impacted HIV care in low-income countries.

METHODS

A systematic review including the current evidence related to changes in HIV care continuum during COVID-19 was conducted through a systematic search in the online databases including CINAHL, OVID-Medline, CAB Direct, and OVID-Embase. A two-step screening process was carried out to include eligible papers and reports according to inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

From the searches we identified 21 total studies published between 2021 and 2024, the studies revealed mostly negative impacts on all stages of the HIV care continuum in low-income countries. There were impacts related to the blocking measures due to COVID-19, fear of contracting the disease, difficulties in providing resources such as income, food and transports, reductions in the provision of care from prevention to viral suppression.

CONCLUSION

Overall, researchers identified several negative impacts of COVID-19 restrictions on HIV care continuum during pandemic; however, some observations indicated indirect positive impacts on some aspects of HIV care. Decline in HIV care practices during pandemic compared to before pandemic were observed including using preventative methods, counseling and testing, receiving HIV healthcare services, HIV medical appointments, antiretroviral adherence, engagement with treatment, and poor viral suppression. However, in some evidence improvement in ART adherence and PrEP use were observed.

Care challenges and silver linings in HIV and behavioral health service delivery for individuals living with HIV and severe mental illness during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

There has been a longstanding effort to integrate behavioral health and HIV care for people with comorbid HIV and behavioral health needs, including those with severe mental illness (SMI). As this population frequents both behavioral health and HIV care settings, they were likely to experience new obstacles to the quality and availability of care during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to describe how clinics for HIV services or behavioral healthcare-as well as co-located sites providing both-sought to rapidly shift protocols to maintain a standard of patient care for people with comorbid HIV and SMI while adapting to the unprecedented circumstances of the pandemic.

METHODS

We interviewed HIV and behavioral healthcare providers, clinic leaders, and support service agencies that served clients impacted by both HIV and SMI. Seventeen key informants across three settings (HIV care settings, behavioral health care settings, and integrated or co-located care settings) were interviewed in 2022. Interviews focused on changes in clinical services, protocols, and care provision strategies during and at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Interviews were transcribed and coded using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Commonly endorsed themes included both positive and negative changes in care and care provision during the pandemic. Negative impacts of the pandemic included the loss of physical space, exacerbated mental health needs and disengagement in HIV care, patient barriers to telehealth and the digital divide, and increased healthcare workforce burnout. Positive changes included improved healthcare delivery and care engagement through telehealth, new opportunities to provide a wide range of social services, paradoxical increases in engagement in HIV care for certain patients, and broad institution of workforce wellness practices.

CONCLUSIONS

Though COVID-19 presented several complex barriers to care for providers serving patients with comorbid HIV and SMI, the increased flexibility afforded by telehealth and a greater focus on collaborative approaches to patient care may benefit this patient population in the future. Additionally, the focus on workforce wellness may serve to increase retention and avoid burnout among providers. The strategies and lessons learned through adapting to COVID-19 may be invaluable moving forward as healthcare systems respond to future pandemics.

Strengths and challenges among Black and Latinx people living with HIV during COVID-19: A mixed-methods investigation of the translation of self-management across syndemic health crises

Black and Latinx people are disproportionately impacted by HIV, COVID-19, and other syndemic health crises with similar underlying social determinants of health. Lessons learned from the HIV pandemic and COVID-19 response have been invoked to improve health equity at the systemic level in the face of other emergent health crises. However, few have examined the potential translation of strategies between syndemics at the individual level. The current mixed-methods study examined strategies used to manage HIV during the COVID-19 pandemic and the extent to which they were helpful in managing COVID-19 vulnerability among Black and Latinx people living with HIV. Participants (n = 30) were interviewed by telephone and completed demographic, mental health, alcohol and substance use, health literacy, and clinical measures in October and November 2020 in Los Angeles County. Rapid qualitative analysis, descriptive statistics, and mixed-methods merging were used to analyze the data. Qualitative results demonstrated that participants found HIV self-management strategies translated to aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic including hygiene and social distancing and coping with a health-related stressor. Although telemedicine provided continuity of HIV care for most participants, technology access and literacy posed a potential barrier, particularly to those facing other sociodemographic marginalization (i.e., low education, disability). Findings suggest providers can encourage leveraging individual HIV self-management strategies in response to other public health crises. However, these interventions must be culturally responsive and address intersecting social determinants of health. Future research should examine mechanisms that predict individual translation of HIV management strategies to other health concerns. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Questioning the "Ease" in disease: Was living with HIV a burden or boost during the first wave of Covid-19 in France? A qualitative study (COVIDHIV)

INTRODUCTION

Clinical research has focused on risk factors and treatment for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2), particularly in people with a comorbidity including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), but little attention has been paid to the care pathway. This article aims to show how living with HIV may have been a biopsychosocial burden or boost in care pathways for Covid-19.

METHOD

People living with HIV (PLHIV) from 9 clinical centers were invited to participate in this qualitative study. The sampling was purposive with a maximum variation in their sociodemographic profiles. Semi-structured interviews were conducted until data saturation, then coded for thematic analysis, using an inductive general approach.

RESULTS

We interviewed 34 PLHIV of which 20 had SARS-COV-2 once. They were 24 males, 26 born in France; median age: 55. Twenty had a CD4 number above 500, and all were on antiretroviral therapy (ART). HIV appeared as a burden when Covid-19 symptoms reminded HIV seroconversion, fear of contamination, and triggered questions about ART effectiveness. HIV was not considered relevant when diagnosing Covid-19, caused fear of disclosure when participants sought SARS-COV-2 testing, and its care in hospitals was disrupted by the pandemic. ART-pill fatigue caused avoidance for Covid-19 treatment. As a boost, living with HIV led participants to observe symptoms, to get advice from healthcare professionals, and screening access through them. Some participants could accept the result of screening or a clinical diagnosis out of resilience. Some could consider ART or another drug prescribed by their HIV specialist help them to recover from Covid-19.

CONCLUSION

Living with HIV could function as a burden and/or a boost in the care pathways for Covid-19, according to patients' relationship to their HIV history, comorbidities and representation of ART. Covid-19 in PLHIV needs further qualitative study to gain a more comprehensive assessment of the pandemic's consequences on their lives and coping strategies.

Pandemic expertise: qualitative findings on the experiences of living with HIV during the COVID-19 pandemic

This qualitative study explored the experiences of people living with HIV (PLWH) in the San Francisco Bay Area, United States, during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent public health restrictions at a safety net HIV clinic. Patients (N = 30) were recruited for Spanish/English language semi-structured interviews (n = 30), translated when necessary, and analyzed thematically. The recurring theme of "pandemic expertise" emerged from the data: skills and attitudes developed through living with HIV helped PLWH cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, including effective strategies for dealing with anxiety and depression; appreciation for life; and practical experience of changing behavior to protect their health. A subset did not consider living with HIV helped them adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic, with some describing their lives as chaotic due to housing issues and/or ongoing substance use. Overall, interviewees reported finding trustworthy health information that helped them follow COVID-19 prevention strategies. Although living with HIV is associated with a higher prevalence of mental health concerns, substance use, and stigma, these challenges can also contribute to increased self-efficacy, adaptation, and resilience. Addressing structural issues such as housing appears to be key to responding to both pandemics.

A pilot test of an infographic-based health communication intervention to enhance patient education among Latino persons with HIV

OBJECTIVE

To pilot test an infographic-based health communication intervention that our team rigorously designed and explore whether its implementation leads to better health outcomes among Latino persons with HIV (PWH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Latino PWH (N = 30) living in New York City received the intervention during health education sessions at 3 study visits that occurred approximately 3 months apart. At each visit, participants completed baseline or follow-up assessments and laboratory data were extracted from patient charts. We assessed 6 outcomes (HIV-related knowledge, self-efficacy to manage HIV, adherence to antiretroviral therapy, CD4 count, viral load, and current and overall health status) selected according to a conceptual model that describes pathways through which communication influences health outcomes. We assessed changes in outcomes over time using quantile and generalized linear regression models controlling for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) research pause and new patient status (new/established) at the time of enrollment.

RESULTS

Most participants were male (60%) and Spanish-speaking (60%); 40% of participants identified as Mixed Race/Mestizo, 13.3% as Black, 13.3% as White, and 33.3% as "other" race. Outcome measures generally improved after the second intervention exposure. Following the third intervention exposure (after the COVID-19 research pause), only the improvements in HIV-related knowledge and current health status were statistically significant.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Our infographic-based health communication intervention may lead to better health outcomes among Latino PWH, but larger trials are needed to establish efficacy. From this work, we contribute suggestions for effective infographic use for patient-provider communication to enhance patient education in clinical settings.

The impact of COVID-19 on cardiovascular health behaviors in people living with HIV

The COVID-19 pandemic's impact on cardiovascular health behaviors including diet, physical activity, medication adherence, and self-care among people living with HIV (PLWH) remains unknown. Using qualitative analyses, we examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cardiovascular health behaviors among PLWH. Twenty-four PLWH were enrolled in this multisite study from September to October 2020. Individuals participated in semi-structured telephone interviews that were recorded, transcribed, and coded by 4 independent coders. Codes were adjudicated and analyzed for common themes. Participants were, on average, 59.2 years old (+/-9.4), 75% African American (n = 18) and 71% male (n = 17). The pandemic altered cardiovascular disease health behaviors. PLWH changed diet based on stay-at-home orders and food access. Alterations in physical activity included transitioning from gym and group class exercise to home-based exercise. Antiretroviral adherence was maintained, even when other health behaviors wavered, suggesting resilience in PLWH that may be harnessed to maintain other health behaviors.

Resilience of Older Latinos and Mexicans Before and During the Pandemic

This article introduces the special issue on Aging and Resilience in the Americas: Mexico and the United States. The article overviews the role that the annual International Conference on Aging in the Americas (ICAA) has played in the development of scholarship on aging of Latinos in the United States and older persons in Latin America and the Caribbean. A brief overview of the aging literature reveals a growing interest on the resiliency of older Latino and Latin American populations in the United States and more broadly the Americas. The article provides a short description of each of the five articles included in this special issue.

Effects of Behavioral Intervention Components for African American/Black and Latino Persons Living with HIV with Non-suppressed Viral Load Levels: Results of an Optimization Trial

There is an urgent need for efficient behavioral interventions to increase rates of HIV viral suppression for populations with serious barriers to engagement along the HIV care continuum. We carried out an optimization trial to test the effects of five behavioral intervention components designed to address barriers to HIV care continuum engagement for African American/Black and Latino persons living with HIV (PLWH) with non-suppressed HIV viral load levels: motivational interviewing sessions (MI), focused support groups (SG), peer mentorship (PM), pre-adherence skill building (SB), and navigation with two levels, short (NS) and long (NL). The primary outcome was HIV viral suppression (VS) and absolute viral load (VL) and health-related quality of life were secondary outcomes. Participants were 512 African American/Black and Latino PLWH poorly engaged in HIV care and with detectable HIV viral load levels in New York City, recruited mainly through peer referral. Overall, VS increased to 37%, or 45% in a sensitivity analysis. MI and SG seemed to have antagonistic effects on VS (z = - 1.90; p = 0.057); the probability of VS was highest when either MI or SG was assigned, but not both. MI (Mean Difference = 0.030; 95% CI 0.007-0.053; t(440) = 2.60; p = 0.010) and SB (Mean Difference = 0.030; 95% CI 0.007-0.053; t(439) = 2.54; p = 0.012) improved health-related quality of life. This is the first optimization trial in the field of HIV treatment. The study yields a number of insights into approaches to improve HIV viral suppression in PLWH with serious barriers to engagement along the HIV care continuum, including chronic poverty, and underscores challenges inherent in doing so.

The Future of Telehealth in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Care: A Qualitative Study of Patient and Provider Perspectives in South Carolina

To ensure care continuity during the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth has been widely implemented in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care. However, participation in and benefits from telehealth were unequal. This study aims to assess the willingness of people living with HIV (PWH) and HIV care providers to use telehealth and perceptions of the future role of telehealth. In-depth interviews with 18 PWH and 10 HIV care providers from South Carolina assessed their willingness to use telehealth, their perspectives on the future of telehealth in HIV care, and recommendations to improve telehealth. Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Most PWH were female (61%), Black/African American (67%), and non-Hispanic (78%). Most PWH (61%) and all providers had used telehealth for HIV care. Most PWH and all providers reported being willing to use or (re-)consider telehealth HIV care services in the future. Providers suggested that telehealth is most suitable for routine HIV care encounters and for established, clinically stable, generally healthy PWH. Attitudes toward telehealth were heterogeneous, with most interviewees valuing telehealth similarly or superior to in-person care, yet >20% perceiving it less valuable. Recommendations to improve telehealth included multilevel strategies to address challenges across four domains: technology, the virtual nature of telehealth, administrative processes, and the sociodemographic profile of PWH. Telehealth in HIV care is here to stay; however, it may not yet be suitable for all PWH and all care encounters. Decision processes related to telehealth versus in-person care need to involve providers and PWH. Existing telehealth options require multilevel adjustments addressing persistent challenges.

The impact of COVID-19 on the HIV continuum of care: challenges, innovations, and opportunities

INTRODUCTION

In February 2019, the United States (US) launched the Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) initiative with emphasis on improving the various steps of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevention and care continuum. However, in March 2020, the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was declared, curtailing efforts to end the epidemic in the US.

AREAS COVERED

To describe the impact of the pandemic on EHE in the US, the authors performed a comprehensive literature review focusing on outcomes at each step of the HIV care continuum. Simultaneously, they identified examples of pandemic-era innovations that may help EHE.

EXPERT OPINION

Numerous studies demonstrated pandemic-related disruptions across the care continuum as well as the impact on preexisting barriers to care among People with HIV (PWH) at higher risk for poor outcomes. As the pandemic progressed, innovative approaches to delivering healthcare and providing essential services emerged, including widespread use of telemedicine, expansion of home-based care, self-collected sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HIV testing, and co-located testing for COVID-19 and HIV/STIs. While the COVID-19 pandemic initially hindered achieving EHE in the US, the ability to be agile, flexible, and creative led to innovation in HIV care delivery that may ultimately assist in meeting EHE goals as we transition into the post-pandemic era.

How the COVID-19 Pandemic Influenced HIV Care: Are We Prepared Enough for Future Pandemics? An Assessment of Factors Influencing Access, Utilization, Affordability, and Motivation to Engage with HIV Services amongst African, Caribbean, and Black Women

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in disruption in healthcare delivery for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). African, Caribbean, and Black women living with HIV (ACB WLWH) in British Columbia (BC) faced barriers to engage with HIV care services prior to the COVID-19 pandemic that were intensified by the transition to virtual care during the pandemic. This paper aims to assess which factors influenced ACB WLWH's access to, utilization and affordability of, and motivation to engage with HIV care services. This study utilized a qualitative descriptive approach using in-depth interviews. Eighteen participants were recruited from relevant women's health, HIV, and ACB organizations in BC. Participants felt dismissed by healthcare providers delivering services only in virtual formats and suggested that services be performed in a hybrid model to increase access and utilization. Mental health supports, such as support groups, dissolved during the pandemic and overall utilization decreased for many participants. The affordability of services pertained primarily to expenses not covered by the provincial healthcare plan. Resources should be directed to covering supplements, healthy food, and extended health services. The primary factor decreasing motivation to engage with HIV services was fear, which emerged due to the unknown impact of the COVID-19 virus on immunocompromised participants.

A virtual pilot optimization trial for African American/Black and Latino persons with non-suppressed HIV viral load grounded in motivational interviewing and behavioral economics

Introduction

Virtual and low-touch behavioral interventions are needed for African American/Black and Latino persons living with HIV (PLWH) with barriers to HIV viral suppression, particularly during COVID-19. Guided by the multiphase optimization strategy, we explored three components for PLWH without viral suppression, grounded in motivational interviewing and behavioral economics: (1) motivational interviewing counseling, (2) 21-weeks of automated text messages and quiz questions about HIV management, and (3) financial rewards for viral suppression (lottery prize vs. fixed compensation).

Methods

This pilot optimization trial used sequential explanatory mixed methods to explore the components' feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary evidence of effects using an efficient factorial design. The primary outcome was viral suppression. Participants engaged in baseline and two structured follow-up assessments over an 8-month period, and provided laboratory reports to document HIV viral load. A subset engaged in qualitative interviews. We carried out descriptive quantitative analyses. Then, qualitative data were analyzed using directed content analysis. Data integration used the joint display method.

Results

Participants (N = 80) were 49 years old, on average (SD = 9), and 75% were assigned male sex at birth. Most (79%) were African American/Black, and the remainder were Latino. Participants were diagnosed with HIV 20 years previously on average (SD = 9). Overall, components were feasible (>80% attended) and acceptability was satisfactory. A total of 39% (26/66) who provided laboratory reports at follow-up evidenced viral suppression. Findings suggested no components were entirely unsuccessful. The lottery prize compared to fixed compensation was the most promising component level. In qualitative analyses, all components were seen as beneficial to individual wellbeing. The lottery prize appeared more interesting and engaging than fixed compensation. However, structural barriers including financial hardship interfered with abilities to reach viral suppression. The integrated analyses yielded areas of convergence and discrepancy and qualitative findings added depth and context to the quantitative results.

Conclusions

The virtual and/or low-touch behavioral intervention components tested are acceptable and feasible and show enough potential to warrant refinement and testing in future research, particularly the lottery prize. Results must be interpreted in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Trial registration

NCT04518241 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04518241).

Stress, Support, and Length of Diagnosis Among Women Living with HIV/AIDS in the Southern USA, During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background

Health-related challenges caused and worsened by the global COVID-19 pandemic have proven broad and multifaceted, particularly for racial/ethnic minority women living with HIV (WLWH). The 2020 pandemic has affected the wellbeing and access to care for WLWH in Southeastern Florida, a region that experienced simultaneous high rates of COVID-19 and HIV. WLWH, over a short- or long-term period, likely utilize different coping mechanisms as they face these challenges.

Methods

This analysis compared pandemic-related stress and support endorsed by participants attending an urban clinic in South Florida, from January through May 2021. Participants completed an adapted version of the Pandemic Stress Index (PSI). The items in the PSI assessed emotional distress, stigma, and support, and were dichotomized, as either "stress" or "support". Mann-Whitney U-test assessed differences in distributions of PSI scores (stress and support) comparing long-term survivors (≥10 years with an HIV diagnosis) to those more recently diagnosed (<10 years).

Results

The cohort consisted of 63 WLWH, aged 21-71 (Mean = 42 years±12.95). The group of WLWH were almost evenly split, with 50.8% having been diagnosed in the last 10 years (short-term survivors). The high-stress group endorsed lower levels of support, compared to the low-stress group. There was a non-significant trend of higher stress scores for short-term survivors, compared to long-term survivors; and, higher support scores for long-term survivors, compared to short-term survivors.

Conclusion

Results suggest a trend in long-term survivor WLWH endorsing lower stress and higher support; the contrary was found for their short-term survivor counterparts. Patterns in COVID-19 related stressors and maladaptive behaviors need further exploration to establish suitable interventions that address disparities within groups of WLWH.

Prepandemic Predictors of Medication Adherence and HIV Viral Load During the First Year of COVID-19

ABSTRACT

Studies have reported significant immediate impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the social relationships and health care of people living with HIV. This study followed a closed cohort of young people living with HIV over the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants were men and women (N = 140) age 36 years and younger who were living with HIV and had demonstrated suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy, unsuppressed HIV viral load, or active substance use in a run-in study. The results confirmed that participants continued to experience significant disruptions to their social relationships and health care over the course of the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. There was evidence for sustained impacts on transportation, housing stability, and food security during the first year of COVID-19. Multivariable models showed that greater pre-COVID-19 social support predicted greater antiretroviral therapy adherence and greater HIV suppression (lower viral load) over the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Efforts to plan and prepare people living with HIV for future social crises, including future pandemics, should emphasize building and sustaining social support.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, associated factors and coping strategies in people living with HIV: a scoping review

INTRODUCTION

The COVID-19 pandemic and associated measures implemented by authorities have created additional stressors and increased the risk of psychological illnesses among people living with HIV (PLWH). Yet, there is no collective evidence on the mental health status of this population during the global pandemic and associated factors. This scoping review aimed to synthesize the evidence in the current literature related to the mental health outcomes and challenges faced by PLWH during the COVID-19 pandemic, identify the associated factors with psychological distress and summarize various coping strategies to ease these psychological distresses used by this population.

METHODS

We conducted a scoping review following the PRISMA-ScR guideline and a literature search in four electronic databases in August 2022. Three reviewers independently screened all the search records and extracted the data from studies that met the inclusion criteria. Factors associated with worsened mental health outcomes were synthesized according to the socio-ecological framework.

RESULTS

Among 1100 research records, 45 articles met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final review and data extraction, most of which were quantitative analyses. PLWH reported high rates of mental health problems during the pandemic. Multi-level factors were associated with increased psychological distress, including substance use, antiretroviral adherence, social support, financial hardship and economic vulnerability during the pandemic. PLWH used social media as a coping strategy to foster social support to deal with growing mental distress. Increased mental health illnesses were associated with increased substance use, it was also found associated with suboptimal medication adherence and antiretroviral therapy (ART) care engagement.

DISCUSSION

PLWH experienced high rates of mental health illnesses, such as depression during the global COVID-19 pandemic. There is an urgent need to provide comprehensive HIV treatment and mental health services as the pandemic continues to evolve.

CONCLUSIONS

The review summarized how the mental health of PLWH was affected during the COVID-19 pandemic. Future work in the implementation of effective interventions to promote mental health in this population is needed, not only to ensure their quality of life but also to help them maintain ART adherence and healthcare during more unprecedented times.

Molnupiravir: A Versatile Prodrug against SARS-CoV-2 Variants

The nucleoside analog β-D-N4-hydroxycytidine is the active metabolite of the prodrug molnupiravir and is accepted as an efficient drug against COVID-19. Molnupiravir targets the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) enzyme, which is responsible for replicating the viral genome during the replication process of certain types of viruses. It works by disrupting the normal function of the RdRp enzyme, causing it to make mistakes during the replication of the viral genome. These mistakes can prevent the viral RNA from being transcribed, converted into a complementary DNA template, translated, or converted into a functional protein. By disrupting these crucial steps in the viral replication process, molnupiravir can effectively inhibit the replication of the virus and reduce its ability to cause disease. This review article sheds light on the impact of molnupiravir and its metabolite on SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, such as delta, omicron, and hybrid/recombinant variants. The detailed mechanism and molecular interactions using molecular docking and dynamics have also been covered. The safety and tolerability of molnupiravir in patients with comorbidities have also been emphasized.

Exploring behavioral intervention components for African American/Black and Latino persons living with HIV with non-suppressed HIV viral load in the United States: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

The persistence of racial/ethnic inequities in rates of engagement along the HIV care continuum signals the need for novel approaches. We developed six behavioral intervention components for use in an optimization trial, grounded in a model that integrates critical race theory, harm reduction, and self-determination theory, designed to address various barriers that African American/Black and Latino persons living with HIV (PLWH) experience to the HIV care continuum. The components were: health education, motivational interviewing sessions, pre-adherence skill building, peer mentorship, focused support groups, and navigation. The present qualitative exploratory study describes participants' perspectives on the components' acceptability, feasibility, and impact.

METHODS

Participants were African American/Black and Latino PLWH poorly engaged in HIV care and with non-suppressed HIV viral load in New York City. From a larger trial, we randomly selected 46 participants for in-depth semi-structured interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim, and data were analyzed using directed content analysis. Quantitative data on sociodemographic and background characteristics and components' acceptability and feasibility were also collected.

RESULTS

On average, participants were 49 years old and had lived with HIV for 19 years. Most were cisgender-male and African American/Black. Participants reported a constellation of serious social and structural challenges to HIV management including chronic poverty, unstable housing, and stigma. Across components, a non-judgmental and pressure-free approach and attention to structural and cultural factors were seen as vital to high levels of engagement, but lacking in most medical/social service settings. Prominent aspects of individual components included establishing trust (health education); developing intrinsic motivation, goals, and self-reflection (motivational interviewing sessions); learning/practicing adherence strategies and habits (pre-adherence skill building); reducing social isolation via peer role models (peer mentorship); reflecting on salient goals and common challenges with peers without stigma (focused support groups); and circumventing structural barriers to HIV management with support (navigation). Components were found acceptable and feasible. Findings suggested ways components could be improved.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study advances research on interventions for African American/Black and Latino PLWH, who experience complex barriers to engagement along the HIV care continuum. Future study of the components is warranted to address racial/ethnic health inequities in HIV.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on HIV Healthcare Service Engagement, Treatment Adherence, and Viral Suppression in the United States: A Systematic Literature Review

The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated adaptations in how healthcare services are rendered. However, it is unclear how these adaptations have impacted HIV healthcare services across the United States. We conducted a systematic review to assess the impacts of the pandemic on service engagement, treatment adherence, and viral suppression. We identified 26 total studies spanning the beginning of the pandemic (March 11, 2020) up until November 5, 2021. Studies were conducted at the national, state, and city levels and included representation from all four CDC HIV surveillance regions. Studies revealed varying impacts of the pandemic on HIV healthcare retention/engagement, medication adherence, and viral suppression rates, including decreases in HIV healthcare visits, provider cancellations, and inability to get prescription refills. Telehealth was critical to ensuring continued access to care and contributed to improved retention and engagement in some studies. Disparities existed in who had access to the resources needed for telehealth, as well as among populations living with HIV whose care was impacted by the pandemic.

"When you have an immune disease like HIV and there is a pandemic, you still have to pay your bills": COVID-19-related challenges among people living with HIV and lessons for care delivery

COVID-19 has disrupted routine medical care and increased psychosocial and economic stressors on a global scale, yet the full impact on people living with HIV (PLWH) and the HIV continuum of care remains unknown. As the pandemic continues to pose a significant threat to PLWH and their care, this research qualitatively aimed to elicit COVID-19-related challenges and perspectives of PLWH during the early phase of the pandemic and to identify lessons learned and impactful strategies for facilitating HIV care. We recruited 32 PLWH who receive care at a large academic medical center for semi-structured remote interviews to assess psychological/structural stressors experienced during the pandemic and to discern strategies for improving care. Most participants identified as Black (91%) and heterosexual (56%). Overall, PLWH reported exacerbated mental health stressors (e.g., anxiety, depression, substance use). Most participants cited no issues with antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence or retention in care, yet five participants reported appointment cancellations or physician inaccessibility. Participants provided specific feedback for facilitating continued engagement in care during the pandemic, including telemedicine and education/patient empowerment. By seeking participant-provided solutions, this study centered on PLWH's experiences and emphasized proactive HIV care strategies for prioritizing patient empowerment and healthcare adaptability during a rapidly evolving pandemic.

Intersecting epidemics: the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 on the HIV prevention and care continua in the United States

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the broad impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on HIV prevention and care in the United States with a focus on the status-neutral HIV care continuum.

DESIGN

We conducted an editorial review of peer-reviewed literature on the topics of HIV-risk behaviors, sexually transmitted illness (STI) and HIV prevalence, HIV prevention and treatment trends, and evolving practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

For relevant literature, we reviewed, summarized, and categorized into themes that span the HIV prevention and care continua, including sexual risk behaviors, mental health, and substance use.

RESULTS

We identified important changes within each component of the HIV care continuum across the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic. Shifts in prevention practices, engagement with care, care provision, medication adherence, testing, and prevalence rates were observed during the pandemic.

CONCLUSION

Although heightened disparities for people at risk for, and living with, HIV were seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, many health systems and clinics have achieved and maintained engagement in HIV prevention and care. This review highlights barriers and innovative solutions that can support durable and accessible health systems through future public health crises.

Socio-Structural Factors and HIV Care Engagement among People Living with HIV during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study in the United States

Achieving HIV prevention goals will require successful engagement in each stage of the HIV continuum. The present study sought to understand the ways in which socio-structural factors influence HIV care engagement among people living with HIV (PLH) within the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Twenty-five PLH were recruited from January to October 2021. Semi-structured interviews discussed various socio-contextual factors that influenced engagement in HIV-related care as a result of the pandemic. A thematic content analysis reported semantic level themes describing factors influencing HIV care following an integrated inductive-deductive approach. Qualitative analysis revealed three themes that either supported or hindered engagement in care within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: (1) social determinants of health, (2) social support, and (3) modes of healthcare delivery. The results underscore the need to assess socio-structural factors of health as means to promote successful engagement in the HIV care continuum and shed new insights to guide future practice in the era of COVID-19.

Grace L. Addressing COVID-19 Misinformation and Resiliency Among Latinos Living With HIV: Formative Research Guiding the Latinos Unidos Microgame Intervention

Besides the risk of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) itself, the indirect and unprecedented effects of mitigation strategies including shelter-in-place orders and social distancing combined with the widespread COVID “infodemic” disseminated by media interacted synergistically to worsen already compromised mental health outcomes of Latino people living with HIV (PLWH). This funded project directly addresses the sources of health disparity in Miami Dade County: mental health and misinformation by developing a culturally tailored resilience and media literacy intervention for Latinos living with HIV. Extant research on resilience strategies and media literacy skills have documented their effectiveness in assisting individuals make realistic appraisals and informed decisions that could benefit their health outcomes and improve health-related challenges. We utilized a community-based approach by collaborating with two local community partners (Open Arms and Borinquen) and conducting 27 qualitative interviews with Latino PLWH, infectious disease providers, and community health workers who directly informed content of the Latino Unidos microgame intervention. This article describes the formative research process guiding the Latinos Unidos microgame intervention—a three-module gamified intervention. Study outcomes provide the foundation for media and educational strategies that increase adherence to health guidance and enhance mental health responses to adversity as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Behavioral intervention grounded in motivational interviewing and behavioral economics shows promise with Black and English-speaking Latino persons living with HIV with unsuppressed HIV viral load in New York City: A mixed methods pilot study

Introduction

Sustained HIV viral suppression is the ultimate goal of HIV treatment. African American/Black and Latino persons with HIV (PWH) in the United States are less likely than their White peers to achieve and sustain viral suppression. To address these disparities, we developed a "low-touch" behavioral intervention drawing on motivational interviewing and behavioral economics. The intervention had three main components: (1) a motivational interviewing counseling session, (2) 16 weeks of automated text messages and quiz questions about HIV management, where participants earned points by answering quiz questions, and 3) a lottery prize, based on viral suppression status, number of points earned, and chance (max. $275).

Materials and methods

The intervention was tested in a pre-test/post-test design. The present pilot study used mixed methods to explore the intervention's feasibility, acceptability, impact, and ways it could be improved. Participants engaged in a baseline assessment, qualitative interview, and two structured follow-up assessments over an 8-month period, and provided laboratory reports to document HIV viral load. We carried out descriptive quantitative analyses. Qualitative data were analyzed using a directed content analysis approach. Data integration was carried out using the joint display method.

Findings

Participants (N = 40) were 50 years old, on average (SD = 11), and approximately half (58%) were male. Close to two-thirds (68%) were African American/Black and 32% were Latino. Participants were diagnosed with HIV 22 years ago on average (SD = 8). The intervention was feasible (e.g., mean number of quiz questions answered = 13/16) and highly acceptable. While not powered to assess efficacy, the proportion with suppressed HIV viral load increased from baseline to follow-up (46% participants at the first, 52% participants at the second follow-up evidenced HIV viral suppression). In qualitative analyses, perspectives included that overall, the intervention was acceptable and useful, it was distinct from other programs, lottery prizes were interesting and appreciated but not sufficient to motivate behavior change, and the structure of lottery prizes was not sufficiently clear. Regarding data integration, qualitative data shed light on and extended quantitative results, and added richness and context.

Conclusion

This low-touch intervention approach is sufficiently promising to warrant refinement and study in future research.

HIV and COVID-19: A Tale of Two Pandemics

In the last 5 decades, we have witnessed two major pandemics, AIDS caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and the CoronaVirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). The emergence of COVID-19 has raised many concerns for researchers, doctors, patients, and other institutions associated with HIV. A lot of debate has persisted on clinical outcomes, the use of antiretrovirals, and vaccines on HIV patients infected with COVID-19. This note attempts to present different aspects of HIV and SARS-CoV-2 across themes like SARS-CoV-2 coinfections in people living with HIV, the psychological impact, treatments, vaccination, etc. We highlight how learnings from the COVID-19 pandemic can help us in tackling the HIV pandemic.

Advancing behavioral interventions for African American/Black and Latino persons living with HIV using a new conceptual model that integrates critical race theory, harm reduction, and self-determination theory: a qualitative exploratory study

BACKGROUND

Rates of participation in HIV care, medication uptake, and viral suppression are improving among persons living with HIV (PLWH) in the United States. Yet, disparities among African American/Black and Latino PLWH are persistent, signaling the need for new conceptual approaches. To address gaps in services and research (e.g., insufficient attention to structural/systemic factors, inadequate harm reduction services and autonomy support) and improve behavioral interventions, we integrated critical race theory, harm reduction, and self-determination theory into a new conceptual model, then used the model to develop a set of six intervention components which were tested in a larger study. The present qualitative study explores participants' perspectives on the study's acceptability, feasibility, and impact, and the conceptual model's contribution to these experiences.

METHODS

Participants in the larger study were African American/Black and Latino PLWH poorly engaged in HIV care and with non-suppressed HIV viral load in New York City (N = 512). We randomly selected N = 46 for in-depth semi-structured interviews on their experiences with and perspectives on the study. Interviews were audio-recorded and professionally transcribed verbatim, and data were analyzed using directed qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

On average, participants were 49 years old (SD = 9) and had lived with HIV for 19 years (SD = 7). Most were male (78%) and African American/Black (76%). All had taken HIV medication previously. Challenging life contexts were the norm, including poverty, poor quality/unstable housing, trauma histories exacerbated by current trauma, health comorbidities, and substance use. Participants found the study highly acceptable. We organized results into four themes focused on participants' experiences of: 1) being understood as a whole person and in their structural/systemic context; 2) trustworthiness and trust; 3) opportunities for self-reflection; and 4) support of personal autonomy. The salience of nonjudgment was prominent in each theme. Themes reflected grounding in the conceptual model. Participants reported these characteristics were lacking in HIV care settings.

CONCLUSIONS

The new conceptual model emphasizes the salience of systemic/structural and social factors that drive health behavior and the resultant interventions foster trust, self-reflection, engagement, and behavior change. The model has potential to enhance intervention acceptability, feasibility, and effectiveness with African American/Black and Latino PLWH.

Using the multiphase optimization strategy (MOST) framework to optimize an intervention to increase COVID-19 testing for Black and Latino/Hispanic frontline essential workers: A study protocol

BACKGROUND

Among those at highest risk for COVID-19 exposure is the large population of frontline essential workers in occupations such food service, retail, personal care, and in-home health services, among whom Black and Latino/Hispanic persons are over-represented. For those not vaccinated and at risk for exposure to COVID-19, including frontline essential workers, regular (approximately weekly) COVID-19 testing is recommended. However, Black and Latino/Hispanic frontline essential workers in these occupations experience serious impediments to COVID-19 testing at individual/attitudinal- (e.g., lack of knowledge of guidelines), social- (e.g., social norms), and structural-levels of influence (e.g., poor access), and rates of testing for COVID-19 are insufficient.

METHODS/DESIGN

The proposed community-engaged study uses the multiphase optimization strategy (MOST) framework and an efficient factorial design to test four candidate behavioral intervention components informed by an integrated conceptual model that combines critical race theory, harm reduction, and self-determination theory. They are A) motivational interview counseling, B) text messaging grounded in behavioral economics, C) peer education, and D) access to testing (via navigation to an appointment vs. a self-test kit). All participants receive health education on COVID-19. The specific aims are to: identify which components contribute meaningfully to improvement in the primary outcome, COVID-19 testing confirmed with documentary evidence, with the most effective combination of components comprising an "optimized" intervention that strategically balances effectiveness against affordability, scalability, and efficiency (Aim 1); identify mediators and moderators of the effects of components (Aim 2); and use a mixed-methods approach to explore relationships among COVID-19 testing and vaccination (Aim 3). Participants will be N = 448 Black and Latino/Hispanic frontline essential workers not tested for COVID-19 in the past six months and not fully vaccinated for COVID-19, randomly assigned to one of 16 intervention conditions, and assessed at 6- and 12-weeks post-baseline. Last, N = 50 participants will engage in qualitative in-depth interviews.

DISCUSSION

This optimization trial is designed to yield an effective, affordable, and efficient behavioral intervention that can be rapidly scaled in community settings. Further, it will advance the literature on intervention approaches for social inequities such as those evident in the COVID-19 pandemic.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05139927 ; Registered on 11/29/2021. Protocol version 1.0. May 2, 2022, Version 1.0.

Experiences with Telemedicine for HIV Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed-Methods Study

To characterize perspectives and experiences with telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic, we conducted a mixed-methods study in two HIV clinics in the US Northeast. Among surveyed patients with HIV (PWH) who had a telemedicine appointment (n = 205), 42.4% perceived telemedicine visits as useful during the pandemic. PWH and clinical staff identified benefits of telemedicine: (1) ability to engage and re-engage patients in care; (2) perceived patient-centeredness and flexibility; (3) opportunity to engage family and multidisciplinary care team members; and (4) opportunity to enhance telemedicine use proficiency through practice and support. Identified barriers included: (1) technical challenges; (2) privacy concerns; (3) loss of routine clinical experiences and interactions; (4) limited objective patient remote monitoring; and (5) reimbursement concerns. Efforts to optimize telemedicine for HIV care should consider strategies to improve technology support for PWH, flexible options to access care, additional platforms to allow patient remote monitoring, and appropriate billing and reimbursement methods.

Challenges and opportunities of telehealth digital equity to manage HIV and comorbidities for older persons living with HIV in New York State

BACKGROUND

Older persons living with HIV (PLWH) need routine healthcare to manage HIV and other comorbidities. This mixed methods study investigated digital equity, constituted as access, use and quality, of HIV and specialty telehealth services for PLWH > 50 years during the initial wave of the COVID-19 pandemic when services transitioned to remote care.

METHODS

A survey of closed and open-ended questions was administered to 80 English (N = 63) and Spanish (N = 17) speaking PLWH receiving HIV care at an Academic Medical Center (N = 50) or a Federally Qualified Health Center (N = 30) in New York State. Quantitative analyses examined characteristics predicting telehealth use and visit quality. Qualitative analyses utilized thematic coding to reveal common experiences. Results were integrated to deepen the interpretation.

RESULTS

Telehealth access and use were shaped by multiple related and unstable factors including devices and connectivity, technology literacy, and comfort including privacy concerns. Participants demonstrated their substantial effort to achieve the visit. The majority of patients with a telehealth visit perceived it as worse than an in-person visit by describing it as less interpersonal, and resulting in poorer outcomes, particularly participants with less formal education. Technology was not only a barrier to access, but also influenced perceptions of quality.

CONCLUSIONS

In the COVID-19 pandemic initial wave, barriers to using telehealth were unequally distributed to those with more significant access and use challenges. Beyond these barriers, examining the components of equity indicate further challenges replicating in-person care using telehealth formats for older PLWH. Work remains to establish telehealth as both equitable and desirable for this population.

Vaccine Attitudes and COVID-19 Vaccine Intentions and Prevention Behaviors among Young People At-Risk for and Living with HIV in Los Angeles and New Orleans

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) and racial or ethnic minority youth at-risk for or living with HIV may have higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, there are few data on vaccine hesitancy/acceptance and COVID-19 self-protective behaviors among this population. Youth aged 15-24 years (n = 440), predominantly African American and Latine (73%, n = 320) SGM, from Los Angeles and New Orleans reported their vaccine attitudes and COVID-19 and HIV preventive behaviors in October 2020. Latent class analyses categorized individuals into groups based on their vaccine attitudes and preventive behaviors. Relationships between these groups and other factors were analyzed using Fisher's exact tests, ANOVA, and logistic regression. Most youth had accepting vaccine attitudes (70.2%, n = 309), with 20.7% hesitant (n = 91), and 9.1% resistant (n = 40). SGM and African Americans were significantly less accepting than their cis-gender and heterosexual peers. About two-thirds (63.2%, n = 278) of the respondents reported consistent COVID-19 self-protective behaviors. Youth with pro-vaccine attitudes were most consistently self-protective; however, only 54.4% (n= 168/309) intended to take a COVID-19 vaccine. Homelessness history, race, and sexual orientation were associated with vaccine attitudes. Accepting vaccine attitudes and consistent COVID-19 self-protective behaviors were closely related. COVID-19 attitudes/behaviors were not associated with HIV risk and only loosely associated with SARS-CoV-2 vaccine intentions.

Psychological and Emotional Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on People Living with Chronic Disease: HIV and Cancer

People living with chronic disease (PLWCD) are the frailest category, both for the risk of severe COVID-19 illness and for the impact on the care continuum. Aim of this study was to analyze coping strategies and resilience in people living with HIV (PLWH) compared to people living with oncological diseases (PLWOD) during COVID-19 pandemic. We administrated an anonymous questionnaire, which explored the emotional experience, the demographic factors linked to a COVID-19-related stress syndrome, the patient’s perception about the adequacy of clinical undertaking from the hospital and the resilience. We analyzed 324 questionnaires. There were no significant differences in prevalence of psychological distress among the whole cohort; however, PLWOD were calmer, less troubled, and more serene than PLWH. Moreover, PLWH smoked more, ate more, and gained more weight than PLWOD. Most patients didn’t feel lonely and continued to take pleasure from their activities. No differences in resilience were found between the groups. In the whole cohort lower levels of resilience were found in patients that were unemployed, with history of psychological disorders and in those who experienced more feelings of anger, anxiety and concern. In our study, patients seemed to preserve their well-being, and to activate adaptive coping during the pandemic.

COVID-19 Burden on HIV Patients Attending Antiretroviral Therapy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study

Background

There has been promising progress toward screening, testing, and retaining patients with HIV in care in Ethiopia. Concern exists that possible disruptions in HIV programs due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) could result in a more HIV-related mortality and new HIV infections. This study aimed to investigate the real-time burden of COVID-19 on patients with HIV attending antiretroviral therapy.

Methods

We conducted a facility-based, multicenter, and cross-sectional study among patients with HIV attending antiretroviral therapy in 10 healthcare facilities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in the COVID-19 pandemic period. Data were collected using adapted, interviewer-based questionnaires, and entered into EpiInfo version 7 and exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis.

Result

A total of 212 patients with HIV were included. The participants who missed visits for refill were 58 (27.4%). When the effects of other independent variables on appointments/visits for refill were controlled, the following characteristics were found to be the most important predictors of missed appointments (p< 0.05): age ≥ 55 [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 6.73, 95% CI (1.495-30.310)], fear of COVID-19 [AOR = 24.93, 95% CI (2.798-222.279)], transport disruption [AOR = 4.90, 95% CI (1.031-23.174)], reduced income for traveling to a health facility [AOR = 5.64, 95% CI (1.234-25.812)], limited access to masks [AOR = 7.67, 95% CI (1.303-45.174)], sanitizer [AOR = 0.07, 95% CI (0.007-0.729)], and non-medical support [AOR = 2.32, 95% CI (1.547-12.596)]. The participants were well aware of the COVID-19 preventive measures. The most costly COVID-19 preventive measures that cause financial burden to the patients were the costs for buying face masks (63.7%), disinfectants (55.2%), and soap for handwashing (22.2%). The participants who missed follow-up diagnostic tests were 56 (26.4%). Variables, which were found to be statistically significant, include the following: age ≥ 55 [AOR = 0.22, 95% CI (0.076-0.621)], partial lockdown [AOR = 0.10, 95% CI (0.011-0.833)], limited access to health services [AOR = 0.15, 95% CI (0.045-0.475)], reduced income for traveling to health facility [AOR = 0.18, 95% CI (0.039-0.784)], and unable to get masks [AOR = 0.12, 95% CI (0.026-0.543)]. The participants who missed counseling services were 55 (25.9%). In multivariate logistic regression, the following were statistically significant: age ≥ 55 [AOR = 0.21, 95% CI (0.078-0.570)], fear of COVID-19 [AOR = 0.11, 95% CI (0.013-0.912)], reduced income [AOR = 0.17, 95% CI (0.041-0.699)], unable to get face masks [AOR = 0.19, 95% CI (0.039-0.959)], and partial lockdown [AOR = 0.08, 95% CI (0.008-0.790)].

Conclusions

The COVID-19 had a significant burden on patients with HIV to attend their routine clinical care and treatment, which may lead to treatment failure and drug resistance. The impact was on their appointments for medication refills and clinical and laboratory follow-ups. Targeted initiatives are needed to sustain HIV clinical care and treatment services and improve the well-being of people living with HIV.

Social and Behavioral Impacts of COVID-19 on People Living with HIV: Review of the First Year of Research

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

The SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic brought unprecedented social change with the most severe impacts on the most vulnerable populations, including people living with HIV (PLWH). This review examined findings from empirical studies of social and behavioral impacts of COVID-19 on PLWH in the first year of the pandemic.

RECENT FINDINGS

Impacts of COVID-19 on PLWH fit within an HIV syndemics framework, with overlapping COVID-19 and HIV comorbid conditions concerning mental health and structural inequality. Early impacts of COVID-19 on social isolation, emotional distress, stigma, and substance use varied across studies with few consistent patterns. Structural inequalities, particularly impacts on food security and housing stability, were observed more consistently and globally. COVID-19 intersects with HIV infection along with multiple interlocking comorbidities that are best characterized and understood within a syndemics framework.

SARS-CoV-2 Infection Among People Living With HIV Compared With People Without HIV: Survey Results From the MACS-WIHS Combined Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms among people living with HIV (PLWH) are not well described.

SETTING

Longitudinal survey within the MACS/WIHS Combined Cohort Study (MWCCS) of PLWH compared with similar HIV-seronegative (SN) individuals.

METHODS

Telephone-administered survey of MWCCS participants at 13 clinical research sites across the United States addressing COVID-19 symptoms, SARS-CoV-2 testing, and pandemic impact on social distancing and antiretroviral therapy (ART) use. Primary data collection occurred during May (wave 1), June-July (wave 2), and August-September, 2020 (wave 3).

RESULTS

One-third of MWCCS participants were tested for SARS-CoV-2 infection; 10% was tested ≥2 times. Similar proportions of PLWH and SN participants were tested, but SARS-CoV-2 positivity was higher among PLWH than among SN individuals (9.4% vs 4.8%, P = 0.003). Odds of SARS-CoV-2 positivity remained higher among PLWH after adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, and study site (adjusted odds ratio = 2.0, 95% confidence interval = 1.2 to 3.2). SARS-CoV-2 positivity was not associated with CD4 cell counts among PLWH. Among SARS-CoV-2 positive participants, 9% had no symptoms, 7% had 1-2 mild symptoms, and 84% had ≥3 symptoms. Most of the (98%) participants reported physical distancing during all survey waves; self-reported ART adherence among PLWH was not adversely affected during the pandemic compared with the previous year (similar adherence in 89% of participants, improved in 9% of participants, and decreased in 2% of participants).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite similar SARS-CoV-2 testing and physical distancing profiles by HIV serostatus among MWCCS participants, PLWH who reported SARS-CoV-2 testing were more likely to have a positive test result. Additional studies are needed to determine whether and why PLWH are at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Subjective well-being and COVID-19 prevention practices among people living with HIV in Cape Town, South Africa

COVID-19 poses significant threats to the health of people with underlying chronic conditions, including people living with HIV. The association between subjective well-being and practicing COVID-19 preventive behaviours among people living with HIV is yet to be empirically tested. The objective of the current study was to test the hypothesis that subjective well-being would be associated with engaging in greater COVID-19 preventive behaviours. A sample of 200 women and 72 men (mean age 38.1, SD = 10.4) receiving HIV treatment at a clinic in Cape Town, South Africa completed interview administered surveys of health behaviours and three dimensions of subjective well-being: emotional, social and psychological well-being. Hierarchical regression models were performed to test subjective well-being as predictors of COVID-19 preventive behaviours adjusting for age, sex, education, TB history, antiretroviral therapy adherence, and concern about contracting COVID-19. Results showed that psychological well-being, along with concerns over COVID-19, predicted greater COVID-19 preventive behaviours over and above the other variables in the model, accounting for 9.2% of the variance. Results support incorporating interventions to foster psychological well-being into existing clinical services for people living with HIV to improve clusters of health behaviours.

Brief Report: Supporting Access to HIV Care for Children and Youth During the COVID-19 Pandemic With Telemedicine and Rideshare

BACKGROUND

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we scaled up telemedicine and rideshare services for clinic and laboratory visits for pediatric and adolescent patients with HIV.

SETTING

HIV subspecialty program for patients aged 0-24 years at Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC.

METHODS

Using the χ2 and Wilcoxon rank sum tests, we compared demographics, visit and laboratory data, and rideshare usage among patients who scheduled telemedicine at least once (telemedicine) versus those who never scheduled telemedicine (no-telemedicine) during the pandemic (April-September 2020). We compared the number and proportion of scheduled and completed clinic visits before the pandemic (April-September 2019) with those during the pandemic.

RESULTS

We analyzed 178 pediatric and adolescent patients with HIV (median age 17.9 years, 89.3% Black, 48.9% male patients, 78.7% perinatally infected), of whom 70.2% and 28.6% used telemedicine and rideshare, respectively. Telemedicine patients scheduled more visits (236 vs 179, P < 0.0001) and completed a similar proportion of visits (81.8% vs 86.0%, P = 0.3805) compared with no-telemedicine patients. Laboratory testing rates (81.3% versus 98.5%, P = 0.0005) were lower in telemedicine patients compared with no-telemedicine patients. Rideshare usage (12.4% versus 26.5%, P = 0.0068) was lower in telemedicine versus no-telemedicine patients. During the pandemic, most of the patients (81.0%) had HIV RNA <200 copies/mL. The total number of completed visits and the proportion of visits completed were similar before and during the pandemic.

CONCLUSION

Most of the pediatric and adolescent patients with HIV used telemedicine and maintained HIV RNA <200 copies/mL during the pandemic. Despite rideshare usage, laboratory testing rates were lower with telemedicine compared with in-person visits.

Exploring the Social Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on People Living with HIV (PLHIV): A Scoping Review

Understanding the clinical impact of COVID-19 has been central to emerging research in the HIV field, but in focusing on the biomedical, researchers must not overlook the socially embedded nature of HIV and the potential social impacts of this new pandemic on PLHIV. We conducted a scoping review to explore emerging research examining the social impacts of COVID-19 on PLHIV in OECD countries over the first 12 months of the pandemic. Twenty articles were identified and included for review. Key themes included: impacts on HIV care access/telehealth; stress and mental health; social isolation and loneliness; food insecurity; changes to sexual behaviour; changes to substance use; impacts on income, education and employment; and racial and social inequality. Results from this review can help guide research into areas where it is needed to help minimise the negative social impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

COVID-19 Burden on HIV Patients Attending Antiretroviral Therapy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study

Background

There has been promising progress towards screening, testing, and retaining HIV patients in care in Ethiopia. Concern exists that possible disruptions in HIV programs due to COVID-19 could result in more HIV-related mortality and new HIV infections. This study aimed to investigate the real-time burden of COVID-19 on HIV patients attending antiretroviral therapy.

Methods

We conducted a facility-based, multicentre, cross-sectional study among HIV patients attending antiretroviral therapy in 10 healthcare facilities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in the COVID-19 pandemic period. Data was collected using adapted, interviewer-based questionnaires, and entered into Epi Info version 7 and exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis.

Result

A total of 212 patients with HIV were included. Participants who missed visits for refill were 58 (27.4%). When the effects of other independent variables on appointments/visits for refill were controlled, the following characteristics were found to be the most important pridictors of missed appointments (P < 0.05): age ≥ 55 [AOR = 6.73, 95% CI (1.495–30.310)], fear of COVID-19 [AOR = 24.93, 95% CI (2.798-222.279)], transport disruption [AOR = 4.90, 95% CI (1.031–23.174)], reduced income for traveling to health facility [AOR = 5.64, 95% CI (1.234–25.812)], and limited access to mask [AOR = 7.67, 95% CI (1.303–45.174)], sanitizer [AOR = 0.07, 95% CI (0.007–0.729)] and non-medical support [AOR = 2.32, 95% CI (1.547–12.596)]. The participants were well aware of the COVID-19 preventive measures. The most costly COVID-19 preventive measures that cause financial burden to the patients were costs for buying facemasks (63.7%), disinfectants (55.2) and sops for handwashing (22.2). Participants who missed follow-up diagnostic tests were 56 (26.4%). Variables which were found to be statistically significant include the following: age ≥ 55 [AOR = 0.22, 95% CI (0.076–0.621)], partial lockdown [AOR = 0.10, 95% CI (0.011–0.833)], limited access to health services [AOR = 0.15, 95% CI (0.045–0.475)], reduced income for traveling to health facility [AOR = 0.18, 95% CI (0.039–0.784)], and unable to get mask [AOR = 0.12, 95% CI (0.026–0.543)]. Participants who missed counseling services were 55 (25.9%). In multivariate logistic regression the following were statisticaly significant: age ≥ 55 [AOR = 0.21, 95% CI (0.078–0.570)], fear of COVID-19 [AOR = 0.11, 95% CI (0.013–0.912)], reduced income [AOR = 0.17, 95% CI (0.041–0.699)], unable to get face mask [AOR = 0.19, 95%CI (0.039–0.959)], and partial lockdown [AOR = 0.08, 95% CI (0.008–0.790)].

Conclusions

COVID-19 had a significant burden on HIV patients to attend their routine clinical care and treatment, which may lead to treatment failure and drug resistance. The impact was on their appointments for medication refills and clinical and laboratory follow-ups. Targeted initiatives are needed to sustain HIV clinical care and treatment services and improve the wellbeing of people living with HIV.