Background:
People who use drugs (PWUD) face significant barriers to accessing health care services, including stigma, discrimination, and lack of trust in healthcare providers. As individuals with lived experience of substance use, peer educators can play a crucial role in bridging this gap by providing support and facilitating access to HIV and viral hepatitis screening and care. The Community Oriented Substance Use Programme (COSUP) In Tshwane employs peers as part of its programme and is the only state funded harm reduction programme in the country.
Description of intervention:
Peers conducted group sessions to share information about HIV and hepatitis prevention, transmission, and treatment, fostering a supportive environment for PWUD. Additionally, peers conducted individual assessments to identify specific needs and potential barriers to accessing care. They navigated PWUD to appropriate services, including on-site screening for HIV and hepatitis infections, and opioid substitution therapy (OST). Peers were observed during sessions, education materials were reviewed, and they were interviewed to understand their role in linking PWUD to care.
Effectiveness:
The presence of peer educators increased the number of PWUD accessing HIV and viral hepatitis screening and treatment services. Staff perceived PWUD to be more comfortable and supported when interacting with peer educators, leading to increased trust and willingness to engage in care. Peers encouraged PWUD to take self-administered or assisted rapid diagnostic tests. Their experience addressed fears and assisted with retention. Peers played a vital role in navigating healthcare and psychosocial intervention to optimize individual outcomes.
Conclusion and next steps:
Peer educators are valuable assets in promoting HIV and viral hepatitis screening and treatment among PWUD. Their lived experience coupled with ongoing training and support, enables them to effectively reach and engage this marginalized population. Integrating peer educators into healthcare settings can significantly improve access to care and contribute to better health outcomes for PWUD. |