A qualitative study of People Living with HIV and AIDS (PLWH) and the Implementation, Use and Modification of a Continuity of Care Document

Issue: The successful use of Internet-based health information tools in special needs populations has the potential to decrease or eliminate persistent health disparities. However, little is known about the use or perceptions of such systems in low income, special needs populations of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH).

Description: A qualitative, exploratory study evaluation, informed by the Precede Proceed Framework, was implemented through focus groups. Barriers (actual and perceived) to the use of an Internet-based Continuity of Care Document (CCD) in a New York City Medicaid/Managed Care population of PLWH were explored. Lessons Learned: The study provided great insight into the personal health needs of the study population. Identified themes were associated with barriers to CCD use, factors that promote CCD use and factors that either hinder or facilitate improved health outcomes and the potential impact of a CCD to overcome technology and health related disparities.

Recommendations: The goal of this evaluation study is to address the identified barriers to system use and general CCD-related information comprehension, informed by qualitative results. The evaluation study also seeks to improve the ease of use of the CCD and the comprehension of personal health information stored within the system.