TRANSforming the Carolinas
Overview
The purpose of this study is to develop and pilot a community health worker (CHW) training module designed to address the barriers to HIV prevention and care for transgender people of color (TPOC) living in North Carolina (NC) and South Carolina (SC).
Participants
We will conduct 12 key informant interviews with current and former CHWs and leaders in organizations willing to hire CHWs, train 10 CHWs to provide health education and linkage to HIV and social services, and pilot test procedures for delivery of the CHW intervention via the stigma-informed digital platform (HealthMpowerment) adapted for this study population.
AIM 1
Develop a CHW training module designed to address HIV prevention and care barriers identified during our formative research. We will create a training manual, resource guide, and related materials tailored for TPOC that can be adapted for use across settings, including rural regions.
AIM 2
Train a cadre of 10 CHWs to provide health education and linkage to services, including PrEP, HIV care, and social services that reduce barriers to care for TPOC in rural and urban areas. We will evaluate the acceptability of the training as well as knowledge and skills gained by trainees.
AIM 3
Pilot test procedures for delivery of the CHW intervention via the stigma-informed digital platform (HealthMpowerment) adapted for this study population. We will assess acceptability and feasibility of the intervention procedures in order to inform a future efficacy trial.
Research Team
This project is a collaboration between researchers at UNC Chapel Hill and community partners at various organizations in North Carolina and South Carolina.
Principal Investigator
Tonia Poteat, PhD, MPH, PA-C
Department of Social Medicine
333 South Columbia St
McNider Hall, Room #345B; Campus Box 7240
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
Phone: 919-445-6364
Email: tonia_poteat@med.unc.edu
Personal Statement of PI: I will supervise all aspects of this research study. I will ensure that this study is performed in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and University policies regarding human subject’s research. I will obtain IRB approval before making any changes or additions to the project. I will notify the IRB of any other changes in the information provided in this application. I will provide progress reports to the IRB at least annually, or as requested. I will report promptly to the IRB all unanticipated problems or serious adverse events involving risk to human subjects. I will follow the IRB approved protocol.
Co-Investigator
Lisa Hightow-Weidman, MD, MPH
Distinguished and Endowed McKenzie Professor in the College of Nursing | Founder of the Institute on Digital Health and Innovation at Florida State University
Project Manager/Study Coordinator
Nastacia Pereira, MPH
Department of Social Medicine
333 South Columbia Rd
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
Phone: 919-962-1136
Email: nastacia_pereira@med.unc.edu
