Results of a peer navigation pilot program to link HIV positive clients of harm reduction services with Ryan White Clinical Service Providers

Abstract

Peer navigation programs may improve healthcare accessibility and adherence for hard-to-reach 
populations. We piloted a peer navigation program at 3 sites within the United States with the aim of 
linking HIV positive clients of harm reduction services with Ryan White Clinical Services. We compared 
navigator activity logs and client tracking forms to evaluate the efficacy of the peer navigation program 
and to determine whether specific navigator duties varied with instances of client navigation. Findings 
indicated that increased instances of peer navigator activities corresponded with successful navigation 
of clients. Peer navigation may be a promising model for overcoming barriers to healthcare access for 
hard-to-reach populations.