Reducing Disparities in Rural HIV Prevention

HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) rates are increasing in rural areas including rural Colorado. Many rural residents find it difficult to access HIV and STI prevention services. The goal of this study is to understand the risk for HIV and STIs, views on PrEP, and to determine if access to telemedicine visits and home lab kits increases engagement in PrEP services and persistence in care for at-risk rural populations.

An online survey on HIV and STI Prevention and best practices to provide access to prevention will be administered to rural residents in three zip 3 zones in rural Colorado, comprised of increased proportions of minority residents (Hispanic, Native American, and Black). In addition to the baseline survey, study participants who are interested and medically eligible may initiate PrEP services with the University of Colorado HIV Prevention Program and receive PrEP through telemedicine visits, mailed home lab kits, and mailed medication. Persistence in PrEP care, acceptability, and feasibility of telemedicine and home lab kits will be measured through baseline and follow-up survey questionnaires and clinical chart reviews for those engaged in PrEP care.

Inclusion criteria

• Colorado rural or frontier county residents, Adults (age 18+)
• Access to internet, smart phone or tablet to participate in online surveys
• Able to complete online surveys in English or Spanish

Exclusion criteria

• Residence in an urban Colorado county
• HIV positive status
• No internet, smart phone, or tablet access
• Unable to complete online surveys in English or Spanish