Charles Osingada, MA, MPH, PhD(c)
Nominated From: University of Minnesota
Research Site: Makerere University
Research Area: HIV Care and Treatment
Primary Mentor: Carolyn Porta
Research Project
Perspectives of Ugandan patients and healthcare providers about use of telehealth for follow-up HIV care and treatment
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains an enormous public health challenge globally. Addressing barriers to engagement in the HIV care continuum is a crucial priority in ending the epidemic. Telehealth interventions have emerged as creative ways of engaging persons living with HIV in care and treatment and overcoming obstacles to HIV care. So far, evidence from high-income countries indicates that telehealth is feasible and acceptable to patients and healthcare providers. However, it is unclear how persons living with HIV and healthcare providers in low-income countries such as Uganda might respond to these services. This study will determine factors associated with the intention of persons living with HIV to use telehealth for follow-up care and treatment. We will also describe perceptions of health worker and patients regarding telehealth for HIV follow-up care and treatment.
Research Significance
Findings from our study will provide important insights that will inform future efforts to integrate telehealth into the HIV care continuum in low-income settings.