Funding Source and Period: HIV Center Pilot Studies Program; 2007-2008

 

Key HIV Center Personnel:
Investigator: Mary A. Cavaleri, Ph.D., LCSW
Mentor: Mary McKay, Ph.D.

 

Project Overview
(from abstract)

 The main aims of this study are to pilot test the feasibility and acceptability of the Bridge Program, a peer-delivered intervention for adults hospitalized with HIV-related illnesses; identify barriers and facilitators to the implementation of the proposed intervention; and examine the preliminary impact of the BRIDGE Program upon engagement in outpatient medical appointments, connection and relationship qualities with outpatient providers, HIV illness and medication knowledge, use of additional services, and re-hospitalization rates.

 

The Bridge Program consists of a series of phone contacts and in-person meetings between a Bridge Peer and the patient beginning in the hospital and continuing after discharge. The objectives of these meetings are to review the patient's discharge plan so that they understand their medication and treatment needs and follow-up appointments; increase engagement and consistent utilization of treatment; decrease barriers to receiving medical care; and prevent future hospitalizations.

 

A sample of 20 adults receiving in-patient care at Mount Sinai Hospital for HIV-related illnesses will be randomly assigned to either: 1) The BRIDGE Program, or; 2) standard discharge planning with a social work or nurse practitioner provided as part of the hospital's routine discharge process. Both groups will be assessed at baseline, one month post-discharge, and at four-month follow-up regarding: a) attendance at outpatient medical appointments; b) HIV illness and medication knowledge; c) connection with outpatient medical providers; d) use of additional services, and; e) rates of re-hospitalization. Preliminary data from this project will be submitted for publication and used to inform a larger scale effectiveness RO1 study.