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A Review of Telehealth Innovations for HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

  • The Science of Prevention (JD Stekler and JM Baeten, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current HIV/AIDS Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

This review summarizes novel interventions that employ technology to improve HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) availability, uptake, and adherence.

Recent Findings

Several notable technology-based programs are increasing access to PrEP in unique ways. We identified multiple models for using telehealth to bolster PrEP dissemination and adherence, such as mobile applications that offer PrEP prescribing without an in-person visit, longitudinal distance telementoring for community provider PrEP education and clinical guidance, and electronic consults for PrEP specialist support in the primary care setting. Outcomes data for all of these modalities are limited but show promise.

Summary

Technology-based interventions can address gaps in the PrEP care continuum. Future research should assess and compare outcomes, scalability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. Costs associated with the creation of new technological tools slow innovation and the field would benefit from a platform for technology sharing.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank a number of clinicians, investigators, and telehealth developers who provided valuable information and input on applications described in this manuscript. The authors extend thanks to Dr. Joanne Stekler of the University of Washington, Dr. Lauren Beste at the Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Medical Center as well as Dr. Marissa Meier and Dr. Melissa Murphy at the VA Portland Healthcare System, Dr. Michael Ohl and Angela Hoth at the University of Iowa, Dr. Jeffrey Klausner and Oliver Refugio at UCLA, Dr. Aaron Siegler at Emory, Jonathan Bandy at PlushCare, and Merissa Hawkins at Nurx. Thanks also to Dr. Colin Lindsay for assistance with table formatting.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Washington, 325 9th Ave, Harborview 2W Clinic, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA

    Rebecca Touger

  2. Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA

    Brian R. Wood

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  1. Rebecca Touger
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Correspondence to Rebecca Touger.

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The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.

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Touger, R., Wood, B.R. A Review of Telehealth Innovations for HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 16, 113–119 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11904-019-00430-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11904-019-00430-z

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