Designing a blockchain technology platform for enhancing the pre-exposure prophylaxis care continuum.

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Blockchain Technology
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is crucial for HIV prevention but faces challenges due to fragmented healthcare systems and poor data coordination.
• Systemic barriers impede efficient PrEP delivery, affecting patient access and adherence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design PrEPLinker, a client-centered, blockchain-based platform to improve PrEP care coordination and data management.
• To enhance client control over identity and health data within the PrEP continuum.

Main Methods:

• A needs assessment was conducted in Houston, Texas, to identify PrEP workflow barriers.
• PrEPLinker was developed using a blockchain identity framework with self-sovereign identity and verifiable credentials (VCs).
• Preliminary usability testing involved 15 participants to evaluate the platform's ease of use and security.

Main Results:

• Needs assessment revealed significant gaps in data exchange for PrEP referrals and follow-ups.
• PrEPLinker incorporates decentralized identifiers and VCs for secure medical record transfer.
• Usability testing showed over 70% positive ratings for design and ease of use, with over 80% confidence in secure data management.

Conclusions:

• Blockchain technology offers a client-centered solution to improve data coordination, security, and client control in PrEP care.
• PrEPLinker demonstrates potential to streamline PrEP processes and enhance data management.
• These advancements can improve PrEP uptake and adherence, contributing to reduced HIV transmission.