Nurse-Led PrEP Initiation Among Incarcerated Individuals

PrEP is a medication that can help prevent the spread of HIV, but many who might benefit from PrEP do not take it. Individuals experiencing incarceration are interested in starting PrEP while incarcerated, but there are challenges that make it difficult for them to start this medication when they return to the community. This study will test to see if a nurse-led, same-day PrEP start program can help individuals experiencing incarceration start and stay on PrEP. To do this, N = 90 PrEP-eligible patients during their incarceration will test the nurse-led program. Everyone will receive access to a nurse-led behavioral intervention during incarceration and information about PrEP services available in the community. Then, N = 60 participants will receive patient navigation support to help them link with PrEP care in the community and N = 30 participants will receive a list of community resources. Research interviews will be conducted with participants while they are incarcerated and 1, 3, and 6 months after they re-enter the community. Participants are offered compensation for each of the research interviews.

Inclusion Criteria: * Currently incarcerated at the Rhode Island Department of Corrections * At least 18 years of age * Not currently pregnant * Eligible for PrEP * No PrEP use in the 90 days prior to incarceration * Interested in starting PrEP * Report any criminalized drug use or at least one heavy drinking day in the 90 days prior to incarceration * Likely to be incarcerated for more than a week but less than 6 months * Able to understand and speak English and provide written and verbal informed consent