PrEP Intervention in Prince George's County, Maryland

BEHAVIORAL

MPowerment PrEP Promotion Intervention

In-person events will focus on five specific goals: Fostering a sense of community acceptance and social connection, promoting self-acceptance of sexual identity, teaching skills for navigating healthcare, reducing PrEP stigma, and providing education on HIV risk. In accordance with the MPowerment model, In collaboration with the PI, the core group and volunteers would lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of all intervention events. Both peer leaders and the primary investigator will collaborate to develop specific events ("M-Groups"), guided by the findings in both the quantitative and qualitative studies. M-Groups will be held once every month. Events will be 2 hour activities focused on the aforementioned goals.

Number of participants with a PreP prescription within one month of intervention completion.

Time frame: Within 1 month of intervention completion.

This is the number of participants who receive an initial prescription for Pre-exposure prophylaxis. Investigators will refer individuals participating in the intervention for PrEP use. Those who provide either a PrEP prescription, or a PrEP bottle with their prescription information, will be considered as initiating PrEP use.

Number of participants with a positive blood spot test for PrEP 6 months following the intervention.

Time frame: 6 months post-intervention.

6 months following the intervention completion, investigators will mail a blood spot collection kit to participants, with return postage. When mailed back, investigators will test the dried blood spots for the presence of PrEP using a chemistry analyzer. Those who test positive will be considered as "PrEP adherent".

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.