Using online content sharing and social networking strategies to support high impact condom distribution programs

Background: Structural-level condom distribution interventions or programs are efficacious in increasing condom use, increasing condom acquisition, and reducing incident STIs. While many community based agency staff have experience distributing condoms as part of their program activities, many feel isolated in their work and lack the knowledge and skills to implement sustainable, high impact condom distribution programs that reach those at highest risk for HIV. Methods: We consulted with subject matter experts and staff at community based organizations and health departments to determine agency needs for planning and implementing high impact condom distribution programs. In addition to receiving skills-based training, practitioners expressed a desire for increased communication and exchange of ideas with colleagues about successfully planning, developing and carrying out these programs. In response, this online “training” website blends skills-based training with content sharing and social networking strategies. Results: The High Impact Condom Distribution Program website uses the information-motivation-behavior skills (IMB) model to integrate two core components: online skills-building modules to increase practitioners' understanding of and skills to implement a high impact condom distribution program and 2) an online community space that uses content sharing and social networking to sustain the engagement of practitioners over time and provide them with a forum for sharing ideas and learning from others. In this space, registered members may post videos, images, and/or text including questions and new discussions. They can "like," "save" or comment on other members' posts. In addition, they can participate in online tutorials to create action plans for each of their priority target populations. Conclusion: The High Impact Condom Distribution Program website is a living, engaging online community of professionals (i.e., HIV prevention practitioners) in geographically diverse locations that combines more traditional online learning techniques with content sharing and social networking to sustain practitioner participation and motivate behavior change.