Novel platforms for biomedical HIV prevention delivery to key populations — Community mobile clinics, peer-supported, pharmacy-led PrEP delivery, and the use of telemedicine

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: A gap exists between PrEP interest and PrEP uptake in key populations (KP) for HIV prevention that may be ascribed to PrEP delivery services not being acceptable. This review summarizes novel platforms for HIV prevention outside of the traditional health facilities environment. RECENT FINDINGS: Mobile health clinics provide highly acceptable integrated, KP-focused services at convenient locations with the potential of high PrEP uptake. Telemedicine and health apps decongest health systems and allow for personal agency and informed decision-making on personal health. Pharmacy-led PrEP delivery provides de-medicalized, confidential PrEP services at extended hours in community locations, from trusted medical professionals. Peer-supported delivery encourages continued PrEP use. Community-based, differentiated and de-medicalized PrEP delivery can address uptake and continued use barriers in key populations. Future research should assess scalability, cost-effectiveness and sustainability of these PrEP delivery platforms, as well as focus on ways to simplify PrEP provision.

• Population(s)
  • General HIV- population
• Prevention, Engagement and Care Cascade
  • Engagement and Care Cascade
  • Prevention
• Engagement and Care Cascade
  • Linkage/engagement in care
• Prevention
  • Sexual risk behaviour
  • Biomedical interventions
  • Education/media campaigns
• Health Systems
  • Governance arrangements
  • Delivery arrangements