As a sexual health nurse with a public health background, this presentation really struck home, and made me excited to be working in the field - Several of Michael’s points were key for me:
- Put the person in front of us first - supporting the person with their individual treatment needs, providing high quality support
- person centred, differentiated care, that optimises impact and efficiency, prioritisation and streamlining of engagement based on relative needs
- Involving and expanding KPLHS across the cascade of Reach, Test, Treat and Retain – aiming for 95-95-95
- KPLHS cost effective – Lancet article indicated $77 million in HIV costs saved by a $50 million investment in targeted interventions led by key population community members and organisations
- Example is same day ART – ART uptake increased substantially with the introduction of options for people to initiate on the same day and at the same site of their diagnosis
- KPLHS can be translated into clinical practice successfully if we can put fast track solutions in the hands of those in which they can have the greatest impact
- Closing persistent gaps in access entails differentiation of care based on understanding of KP and PLHIV preferences and needs
- No one better understanding these preferences and needs than KP and PLHIV themselves – have to use strategies that engage their leadership - Nothing for us without us
