The Two-Door Approach: Enhancing PrEP Uptake with the HIV/PrEP Toolkit.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Prevention
• Health Equity

Background:

• Over 38,000 new HIV infections occurred in the US in 2022, disproportionately impacting minority populations and the Southern US.
• Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective but faces low uptake due to structural barriers, stigma, and provider discomfort.

Purpose of the Study:

• Introduce the PrEP/HIV Toolkit, an innovative, equity-focused solution designed to scale up HIV prevention.
• To dismantle barriers to PrEP access and improve uptake through a novel, two-door approach.

Main Methods:

• The toolkit employs a "two-door" strategy, tailoring information for healthcare providers and community members.
• Integrates evidence-based resources, decision-support tools, and stigma-reducing messaging.
• Utilizes QR code functionality for enhanced accessibility and information exchange.

Main Results:

• The toolkit has achieved international reach, with users in 97 countries and all 50 US states since its launch.
• Demonstrates potential for improving PrEP access and reducing HIV infections.

Conclusions:

• The PrEP/HIV Toolkit is an actionable and scalable solution for increasing PrEP uptake.
• Promotes informed, stigma-free discussions in clinical and community settings to reduce new HIV infections.