Centering Those Engaged in Transactional Sex: A PrEP Initiative
Session Number
BHVSO 13
Advisor(s)
Dr. Randi Beth Singer, University of Illinois at Chicago
Discipline
Behavioral and Social Sciences
Start Date
17-4-2024 10:45 AM
End Date
17-4-2024 11:00 AM
Abstract
Reducing HIV infection is a public health priority, with the Getting to Zero (GTZ) initiative in Illinois striving to stop new HIV infections by 2030, ending the epidemic in the state. Increasing HIV prevention, self-management, and harm reduction among at-risk populations is critical. HIV prevalence in individuals engaged in transactional sex or sex workers is 12 times greater than the general population, highlighting the need for targeted prevention efforts. Increasing optimal use of pre-exposure prophylaxis or PREP within this population can help with the advancement of GTZ by 2030. However, stigma, criminalization, and financial instability can hinder sex worker’s access to
HIV preventions including PREP. Evidence-based, community-centered, effective PREP care in clinical settings must consider these social determinants facing this community. A group care model can empower this community by centering patient needs while alleviating healthcare demands.
Utilizing the EPIS framework we sought to gain insight into Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) care providers and staff members perspectives on an evidenced-based group PrEP care model, Centering PREP, for sex workers.
Centering Those Engaged in Transactional Sex: A PrEP Initiative
Reducing HIV infection is a public health priority, with the Getting to Zero (GTZ) initiative in Illinois striving to stop new HIV infections by 2030, ending the epidemic in the state. Increasing HIV prevention, self-management, and harm reduction among at-risk populations is critical. HIV prevalence in individuals engaged in transactional sex or sex workers is 12 times greater than the general population, highlighting the need for targeted prevention efforts. Increasing optimal use of pre-exposure prophylaxis or PREP within this population can help with the advancement of GTZ by 2030. However, stigma, criminalization, and financial instability can hinder sex worker’s access to
HIV preventions including PREP. Evidence-based, community-centered, effective PREP care in clinical settings must consider these social determinants facing this community. A group care model can empower this community by centering patient needs while alleviating healthcare demands.
Utilizing the EPIS framework we sought to gain insight into Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) care providers and staff members perspectives on an evidenced-based group PrEP care model, Centering PREP, for sex workers.