NCT06103370 · Johns Hopkins University
Syringe Service Based Telemedicine and Social Network Driven HIV Prevention Service Implementation
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of a social network intervention to recruit people who inject drugs and their networks for HIV testing and linkage to HIV prevention and treatment services in Maryland.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of a social network intervention to recruit people who inject drugs and their networks for HIV testing and linkage to HIV prevention and treatment services in Maryland. Study aims are to determine the effectiveness of a social network driven intervention to increase: * HIV testing (primary); * PrEP knowledge; * Uptake of HIV services and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP); * Uptake of medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) initiation. Eligible participants who access syringe service programs (SSPs) serving two counties in Maryland and their risk network members (NMs) will be recruited using an established network inventory and coupon recruitment method. When an index successfully recruits NMs, the index-NM cluster will be randomized to either a peer-educator intervention arm or an equal-attention control arm. Index participants randomized to the peer-educator intervention arm will complete a training program adapted with stakeholder input to context that emphasizes effective communication, frequent HIV testing, and awareness of evidence-based HIV prevention and treatment services. An important innovation to the network intervention will be training indexes to use and distribute HIV self-test kits and naloxone to their NMs. Index participants randomized to the equal-attention control arm will receive training sessions focused on the opioid overdose epidemic and will not include any training to serve as a peer educator. All participants (indexes and NMs) will complete study assessments at baseline and at 3 and 9 months. We will compare the peer-educator intervention group and the equal-attention control group on rates of HIV testing, knowledge of PrEP options and resources, and rates of initiation of HIV treatment, PrEP, and MOUD treatment since the previous assessment (past 3 or 6 months).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Aged 18 or older
- Self-reported injection drug use in the prior month
- Accessed services at the SSP in the prior 3 months
- Willing to undergo training and attend weekly booster group sessions
- Able to recruit at least 1 drug use Network Member (NM) into study
- Willing to talk with peers about PWID topics such as HIV prevention and care
- Not previously enrolled in the study as index or NM
- English-speaking Inclusion criteria for network member participants:
- Aged 18 or older
- Self-reported injection drug use in the prior month
- Have a valid coupon or able to recall the 3-digit ID number
- Not previously enrolled in the study as index or NM
- English-speaking
Exclusion criteria
- • Individuals lacking the capacity to consent
Where
- Baltimore, Maryland
- Frederick, Maryland
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Nov 10, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations