Using Community Health Workers and Mobile Technology to Improve HIV Treatment and Viral Suppression in the Deep South

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to improve antiretroviral therapy ART adherence and viral suppression VS among people with HIV PWH in the Deep South of the United States, where gaps persist despite efforts to end the HIV epidemic. The study evaluates the effectiveness of the CHAMPS intervention, which combines mobile health mHealth technology and community health workers CHWs to support ART adherence and reduce HIV transmission risks during periods of non-suppression. Researchers also assess the clinical effectiveness, sustainability, and regional implementation factors of this intervention in Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups a control group receiving standard health services and referrals per Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines, or an intervention group receiving the CleverCap pill bottle device that tracks and dispenses medication while connecting to the WiseApp for reminders. The intervention also includes 10 to 12 sessions with CHWs and a sexual health log to monitor behavior. This multi-component intervention targets individual, social, and community levels to support self-management of ART and prevent HIV transmission. During the study, participants will be monitored at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months to measure changes in viral load and ART adherence via the CleverCap device and self-report scales. Researchers will use culturally relevant recruitment and retention strategies tailored to the Deep South population. The study duration extends up to 12 months, with ongoing assessment of viral suppression, medication adherence, and risk reduction behaviors. All participants provide informed consent and medical record access for comprehensive evaluation.

Community Health Workers And MHealth to ImProve Viral Suppression Plus (CHAMPS+)