La Mesa, California, United States
Served as the primary conductor of screening and baseline assessments as well as secondary counselor and interviewer for the following projects: CTN0049 Project HOPE (Hospital Visit as Opportunity for Prevention and Engagement for HIV-Infected Drug Users): A longitudinal, three-armed study determining the efficacy of Motivational Interviewing and Patient Navigation in reducing the HIV viral load in heavy alcohol and drug users by connecting them to regular HIV primary care.; CTN0047 SMART-ED (Screening, Motivational Assessment, Referral, and Treatment in Emergency Departments; Project AWARE: HIV Rapid Testing and Counseling in STD Clinics in the U.S.—an adaptation of CTN0032; CTN0032 HIV Rapid Testing and Counseling in Drug Abuse Treatment Programs in the U.S. Develop and maintain national databases tracking participant recruitment and retention. Train site teams in advanced retention planning and strategies. Conduct weekly conference calls with site coordinators to identify and trouble-shoot problem areas to keep project on schedule.
Served as the primary conductor of screening, baseline, and follow-up assessments for: Project PATH (HIV+ Drug Users: Neurocognitive Aspects or ART Adherence): A longitudinal study assessing neuropsychological and other behavioral determinants of adherence to antiretroviral medications in HIV-positive substance users.; Administer and score a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery to measure executive functions, memory, reaction time, information processing speed, psychomotor skills, and other behavioral/mood characteristics associated with study outcomes Track adherence to antiretroviral medications via self-report, pill counts, and electronic monitoring devices at 4-week intervals Assist PI in preparation of scientific manuscripts for publication
Served as the primary conductor of screening, baseline, and follow-up assessments for: ARTAS (Antiretroviral Treatment and Access Studies): a CDC-funded 2002 survey of all rural HIV care providers in the state of Florida on perspectives and attitudes regarding HIV treatment guidelines and patients, achieving a response rate of over 70%. Project INSPIRE (Interventions for SeroPositive IDUs – Research and Evaluation): a CDC-funded intervention focusing on adherence to treatment regimens, risk reduction in high risk sex and drug use behaviors, and increased access to and utilization of HIV primary health care services.