A faculty trainer model: increasing knowledge and changing practice to improve perinatal HIV prevention and care

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Prevention
• Medical Education

Background:

• Routine HIV counseling and testing for pregnant women is recommended but not universally implemented.
• Effective strategies are needed to improve HIV screening and management in prenatal care.
• The train-the-trainer model offers a scalable solution for disseminating best practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a faculty trainer model in enhancing HIV knowledge and clinical practice among healthcare providers.
• To increase HIV counseling and testing rates during prenatal care.
• To improve the management of HIV in pregnant women.

Main Methods:

• A faculty trainer (train-the-trainer) model was implemented from 2000-2002 in the southeastern US.
• 193 healthcare providers attended faculty trainer workshops using a standardized curriculum.
• 18 faculty trainers subsequently trained 545 additional providers over two years.

Main Results:

• Participants reported significant increases in perceived knowledge and intention to change clinical practice.
• Over 90% of faculty trainers reported a positive impact on their care of women with or at risk for HIV.
• Successful implementation depended on ongoing support, local HIV expert involvement, and a standardized curriculum.

Conclusions:

• The faculty trainer model is an effective strategy for educating practicing clinicians on HIV management in pregnant women.
• Sustained support and collaboration with local experts are crucial for successful program implementation.
• This model can enhance the reach and impact of HIV prevention and care initiatives in prenatal settings.