Development and Implementation of a Self-Management Program for Individuals Living with HIV in New York City

Issues: In 2010 there were 110,736 residents of New York City diagnosed with HIV/AIDS; among them, 77.2% were black or Hispanic, disproportionately affecting minorities in NYC. As HIV has become a more chronic, manageable disease, self-management programs are an effective method of empowering people with HIV to improve their health and wellness throughout their lifetime. A peer model of self-management allows for increased disclosure and trusted support which are shown to improve health outcomes. Description: Interviews with providers, consumers, and a literature review served to develop The Positive Life Workshop, a self-management curriculum for HIV positive individuals in New York City. Monthly peer-led workshops, held in different citywide locations, address relevant biological, psychological, and social issues of living with HIV, with specific outreach to engage newly diagnosed. The goals of the workshop are increased engagement in primary care, increased HIV treatment adherence, and decreased high-risk sex and drug behaviors. Lessons Learned: A peer model enhances the efficacy of health education workshops for individuals living with HIV, as reported by peer and participant evaluations. 95% of participants identified as minorities, demonstrating the workshop's ability to reach a diverse audience. Only 8% of participants were newly diagnosed, which underscores the challenges of reaching this population and drives outreach goals for 2012. Recommendations: Use of a Peer based self-management workshop is an effective way to engage people with HIV in health promotion. Attainment of the workshop goals is measured through pre and post-surveys, to assess self-reported changes in knowledge, attitudes, and behavior.