Grand Rounds Series: Sept 17, 2024: Learning From Newly HIV Diagnosed People in British Columbia: Findings from a Community-Based Qualitative Study

Background: Despite advancements in HIV prevention and treatment, gaps in HIV prevention and care cascades persist in British Columbia (BC). As a result, new HIV diagnoses continue, particularly among communities that experience intersectional health and social inequities. Methods: Using a community-based approach and applying GIPA/MEPA principles, we conducted in-depth peer-led interviews with people in BC who were diagnosed with HIV between 2018-2023. Eligible participants were aged 16+ and were recruited in partnership with local HIV service organizations and care providers. Interviews were conducted in English (n=20) or Spanish (n=11) and thematically analyzed by peer researchers. Results: Most participants (27/31) were 2S/GBTQM and non-binary people, a third were Latinx (n=12), and ages ranged 24-62. Participants highlighted barriers to HIV education, PrEP access, and testing services, which were amplified due to structural barriers, and emphasized the importance of trauma-informed diagnosis. Participants shared positive experiences with their HIV care providers but highlighted the need to address HIV stigma and access to peer support and opportunities to better integrate STI prevention, including doxy PEP/PrEP, and improve availability of long-acting treatment. Discussion: HIV responses must actively address structural drivers and inequities and resultant gaps in HIV prevention and care. Potential enhancements to the HIV care cascade should include multilingual HIV education, improved access to long-acting treatment, and services that are tailored to communities that are disproportionately impacted by HIV. With over a decade of experience, Jean Reyes and his commitment to social justice has left an indelible mark on various organizations, both locally and internationally. Jean’s journey began in the heart of Latin America, where he actively participated in projects spanning child protection, sex education, and microfinance entrepreneurship. As an active member of AIDS Vancouver, Jean played a pivotal role in ensuring that newcomers living with HIV gained equitable access to healthcare services in Canada. Currently, Jean serves as a Legal Navigator at Legal Aid BC, where their guidance and case management becomes a lifeline for those navigating complex legal systems. With compassion and expertise, Jean assists individuals in need, particularly Refugee Claimants, helping them find their way through. His advocacy work bridged gaps, empowered individuals, and fostered a sense of belonging within the community. Ben Klassen (he/him) is an Associate Director of Research at the Community-Based Research Centre, where he oversees several 2S/LGBTQ+ health studies across Canada. He is passionate about utilizing community-based approaches to empower and make a difference in 2S/LGBTQ+ communities. Ben has been involved in HIV research for over 10 years, including the "HIV in My Day" oral history project since 2017. Learning objectives: Learn about communities that are impacted by HIV and the barriers they experience in accessing HIV prevention in BC Learn how HIV prevention, diagnosis, and care can be enhanced in BC from the perspectives of those recently diagnosed with HIV

Mediasite Presenter

9/17/2024 7:00:00 PM