Grant: HIV Implementation Science - Component 1 - Indigenous Populations

The Implementation Science Component 1 DRUM (Development of a Rural Model) Project will work with 3 First Nation communities in Northern Alberta. Integrating local, regional and national policy makers, First Nations and Métis HIV/HCV service network leaders, researchers, and clinicians, our team will develop a Shared Care Model (SCM) for people living with HIV in these communities. To do this, we will use Indigenous worldviews, "two-eyed seeing" approaches and implementation science techniques. As Canada works toward meeting the highest standards for care, treatment and support for people living with HIV and AIDS, it is critical that appropriate services be developed to meet the needs of the most underserved populations at risk of/living with HIV. Indigenous peoples in Canada specifically face a disproportionate burden when it comes to the HIV epidemic. Our team has the policy, clinical, community and service network knowledge and influence to lead research for positive change for those living in rural and reserve First Nation and Métis communities. Our ultimate goal is for the 3 First Nation communities to have access to high quality HIV prevention, care and support services. Over the 18 month period of the grant, our objectives are to: 1. Develop an expanded, culturally-relevant and resiliency-based SCM that focuses on HIV and concurrent HCV, STBBI, mental wellness components, and HIV prevention components; 2. Use a community readiness approach to build capacity to provide and support care; 3. Develop assessment tools for program implementation and outcomes; 4. Implement the SCM in the 3 communities and collect preliminary outcome data.