Substance Use Screening for People with HIV

(ePORTAL-HIV-S Trial)

This trial aims to improve the screening and treatment of substance use disorders for Black individuals living with HIV. It tests a new approach called ePORTAL HIV-S, which uses a patient portal to provide a quick substance use screener, even without a scheduled visit with an HIV doctor. The trial compares this method to the usual care, where screening occurs only during scheduled appointments. Individuals who have HIV, speak English, and haven't had a substance use screening at their clinic in the past year might be a good fit for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative healthcare solutions.

The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Research has shown that the ePORTAL HIV-S treatment aims to include substance use screening as part of HIV care, marking a relatively new approach in standard HIV treatments. The treatment employs a system called ePORTAL, which has been linked to better outcomes in managing HIV. Studies have found that individuals using patient portals to manage their health are more likely to maintain control over their HIV.

Researchers are excited about the Substance Use Screening for People with HIV trial because it explores a new way to identify substance use issues among HIV patients. Unlike the standard approach, which screens patients only during scheduled HIV clinic appointments, this trial uses an innovative method of delivering the NIDA Quick Screen via a patient portal. This means patients can be screened at any time, not just during appointments, potentially catching substance use problems earlier and more efficiently. This proactive approach could lead to timely interventions, better overall health outcomes, and improved quality of life for people living with HIV.

Research has shown that combining substance use services with HIV care can improve health outcomes. In this trial, the ePORTAL HIV-S treatment is being tested to identify and treat substance use problems among Black people living with HIV. Studies suggest that using a patient portal for screening can facilitate access to necessary care, promoting fairer access to substance use treatment. By monitoring patients even without appointments, ePORTAL HIV-S aims to detect issues early and provide timely assistance. This method has shown promise in enhancing health outcomes through quick interventions. Meanwhile, another group in this trial will receive usual care substance use involvement screening during scheduled appointments, allowing for a comparison of these approaches.¹²³⁶⁷