Translating and disseminating a localised economic model to support implementation of the ‘Ending the HIV Epidemic’ initiative to public health policymakers

Matthew P. Abrams, Janet Weiner, Micah Piske, Benjamin Enns, Emanuel Kreb, Xiao Zang, Bohdan Nosyk, Zachary F. Meisel

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background: Despite significant progress in HIV treatment and prevention, the US remains far from its goal of ‘Ending the HIV Epidemic’ by 2030. Economic models using local data can synthesise the evidence to help policymakers allocate HIV resources efficiently, but persistent research-to-practice gaps remain. Little is known about how to facilitate the use of economic modelling data among local public health policymakers in real-world settings. Aims and objectives: To explore the dissemination of results from a locally-calibrated economic model for HIV prevention and treatment and identify the factors influencing potential uptake of the model for public health decision making at the local level. Methods: Four virtual focus groups with 26 local health department policymakers in Baltimore, Miami, Seattle, and New York City were held between July 2020 and May 2021. Qualitative content analysis of transcripts identified key themes around using the localised economic model in policy decisions. Results: Participants were interested in using local data in their decisions to allocate resources for HIV prevention/treatment. Six themes emerged: 1) importance of understanding local policy context; 2) health equity considerations; 3) using evidence to support current priorities; 4) difficulty of changing strategies, even incrementally; 5) bang for the incremental buck (efficiency) vs. previous impact; and 6) community values. Conclusion and relevance: To optimise acceptance and use of results from economic models, researchers should engage with local community members and public health decision makers early to understand budgetary and community priorities. Participants prioritised evidence that supports their existing strategies, considers budgets and funding streams, and improves health equity; however, real-world budget constraints and conflicting interests serve as barriers to implementing model recommendations and reaching national goals.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)554-571
Number of pages18
JournalEvidence and Policy
Volume19
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2023
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2023 Policy Press. All rights reserved.

Keywords

  • HIV/AIDS
  • evidence-informed practice
  • health policy
  • knowledge translation

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Translating and disseminating a localised economic model to support implementation of the ‘Ending the HIV Epidemic’ initiative to public health policymakers'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this