Amrit Tiwana - Enhancing Access to HIV/Hepatitis Care for People Who Experience Criminalization Through Digital Equity: A Mixed Methods Quality Improvement Evaluation

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the digitization of healthcare, increasing the importance of reducing digital exclusion. The Test, Link, Call (TLC) Project aims to address barriers to healthcare caused by digital exclusion among people who experience criminalization by providing cell phones and peer support to enhance access to HIV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), and syphilis care. Findings from a mixed-methods evaluation show that this intervention advances digital health equity, significantly improves engagement in care, and reduces health disparities. Interestingly, receipt of prescribed ‘safer supply’ was also associated with increased HCV treatment uptake. These findings demonstrate the importance of addressing digital exclusion among marginalized populations in a post-pandemic world.

Mediasite Presenter

10/31/2024 5:05:00 PM