Expanding Rapid Initiation of Antiretroviral Therapy in Non-traditional Settings: Emergency Department

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The purpose of this notice of funding opportunity is to support implementation research on the rapid or immediate initiation of HIV antiretroviral therapy (ART) for persons newly diagnosed with HIV or for persons with HIV (PWH) returning to care in Emergency Department (ED) settings. The rapid ART model, defined as immediate diagnosis, linkage to care, and ART initiation on the same day as a new HIV diagnosis or return to care, offers an accelerated entry into HIV medical care. The ED offers a unique setting to immediately engage with patients who are not accessing existing HIV services. The implementation research supported by this funding will evaluate acceptability, perceived barriers and facilitators, feasibility, sustainability, and HIV care continuum outcomes of deploying rapid ART models in ED settings. Applied research resulting from this funding is expected to decrease HIV infections and more rapidly reach viral suppression among PWH.

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