Title : Advancing sexual health education: A methodological triangulation in the development and impact of the DISH-AZ academic detailing program
Abstract:
During this poster presentation, the presenter will discuss the development of the academic detailing (AD) DISH-AZ (Detailing for Improved Sexual Health in Arizona) program and will explain the methodological triangulation approach that is being used in Arizona. By employing a methodological triangulation approach consisting of academics, a provider/healthcare staff, and public health experts, the DISH-AZ program offers invaluable benefits for enhancing the quality and effectiveness of academic detailing to connect, educate, and support better health outcomes for LGBTQ+ patients and people living with HIV (PLWH), while also providing a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare topics. This approach not only increases the credibility of the information presented but also allows for tailored educational strategies that address the diverse needs and preferences of the target audience. Furthermore, methodological triangulation enables the cross-validation of key messages and recommendations, reinforcing their validity and relevance. Ultimately, this collaborative and multidisciplinary approach fosters innovation, promotes evidence-based practice, and contributes to improved healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.
The presenter will also discuss the methodology used for whole clinic assessment and pathways for AD sessions in order to meet the needs of the entire clinic. DISH-AZ uses AD strategies to address the gaps in knowledge and methods to assist healthcare staff to improve equity in patient care, especially for LGBTQ+ patients and PLWH, through comprehensive clinic-wide connection, education, and support. DISH-AZ is an AD program launched in 2021 by Arizona State University (ASU) in collaboration with the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS). Targeting health care staff caring for individuals living with and at risk for HIV, DISH-AZ emphasizes a holistic approach to improve care and patient outcomes using AD sessions to promote evidence-based and status neutral practices. In 2023, 250 sessions were held with 144 providers in Arizona and Nevada and 18 group presentations had 500+ attendees. The strategy involves developing programs and education with a status-neutral and pleasure-based biomedical approach, addressing outreach methods, protocols, and clinical practices. Lastly, while the focus of the program has been on status neutral approaches and practices, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and non- occupational post exposure prophylaxis (nPep) to prevent HIV transmission, Rapid Start implementation for rapid initiation of antiretroviral therapy for persons diagnosed with HIV, hepatitis C treatment, and drug user health, since then, the program has expanded to include other topics such as mpox, gender-expansive care, and syphilis. The DISH-AZ Academic Detailers have expertise from each of the focus topics as well as lived experiences, which has proven to be impactful when establishing credibility with physicians and clinical staff. The lived experiences of our Academic Detailers enrich the educational exchange between detailers and physicians and their staff, leading to more meaningful discussions, enhanced learning outcomes and ultimately, improved patient care.
