Online Program

279255
Evaluating the implementation of the RESPECT HIV prevention intervention in combination with HIV testing among MSM


Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Andrea Moore, MPH, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention; Program Evaluation Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
Tobey Sapiano, MPH, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention;Program Evaluation Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
Gary Uhl, PhD, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention; Program Evaluation Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
Background: As part of its high-impact prevention effort, CDC supports the dissemination of effective HIV prevention behavioral interventions nationally. RESPECT is a counseling intervention that explores a client's HIV risk factors and develops a risk reduction plan. The intervention protocol allows for stand-alone implementation or delivery in combination with HIV testing. Methods: In 2011, four community-based organizations (CBOs) delivering two-session RESPECT to MSM were funded to participate in an assessment of intervention implementation. Methods included documentation of activities, client feedback on the counselor and intervention, observations of intervention sessions, and staff questionnaire. Results: Data from 245 clients indicate that CBOs were able to enroll MSM and implement RESPECT with fidelity to the core elements (elements thought to be responsible for the intervention's effectiveness). Among clients returning for session 2, 81% achieved the goals outlined in the risk reduction plan developed in session 1. Of the three CBOs that implemented RESPECT in combination with HIV testing, 110 MSM clients (45%) received a rapid HIV test. There was no difference in intervention content when RESPECT was delivered alone or in combination with HV testing. Conclusions: CBOs were able to enroll MSM and deliver two-session RESPECT according to intervention protocol. Capturing the perspectives of CBO staff members and clients created investment in the assessment process and improved evaluation capacity. CBOs can integrate multiple evaluation activities into existing programs, including HIV testing, with modest effort by staff and minimal disruption to clients.

Learning Areas:

Conduct evaluation related to programs, research, and other areas of practice

Learning Objectives:
Compare RESPECT intervention implementation in real-world settings to the nationally disseminated intervention protocol, including variations when delivered as a stand-alone intervention and when implemented with HIV testing. Identify lessons learned that service providers may use to develop assessments of intervention implementation, both to evaluate fidelity and to incorporate as part of routine program monitoring.

Keyword(s): Evaluation, HIV Interventions

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I have been the principal Project Officer or Project Coordinator for multiple evaluations of HIV programs for 8+ years at the CDC.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.