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Publication Profiles

African American Clergy Recommendations to Enhance the Federal Plan to End the HIV Epidemic: A Qualitative Study

Citation

Arnold T, Haynes T, Foster P, et al. African American Clergy Recommendations to Enhance the Federal Plan to End the HIV Epidemic: A Qualitative Study. AIDS Behav. 2022;26(Suppl 1):100-111. doi:10.1007/s10461-021-03415-5

Implementation stage:

Pre-Implementation

Implementation outcomes reported:

Not applicable

Continuum target addressed:

HIV diagnosis, Linkage to HIV care,ART initiation,ART adherence, Engagement in treatment (including retention and re-engagement), Viral suppression, HIV testing, Linkage to preventative care, PrEP initiation, PrEP adherence, PrEP persistence

Geography:

Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi

Study Participant Classification:

Community member(s)

Plain Language Objectives

The researchers met with African American clergy in Arkansas, Mississippi, and Alabama. They wanted to understand clergy members’ knowledge of the federal HIV initiative and how faith organizations could support HIV testing, treatment, prevention medication, and community education.

Plain Language Abstract

Faith-based organizations are influential in many African American communities, but they are not consistently included in HIV screening, treatment, and pre-exposure prophylaxis efforts. Researchers conducted 11 focus groups with 57 prominent African American clergy members in Arkansas, Mississippi, and Alabama. Participants discussed the federal Ending the HIV Epidemic plan, possible clergy roles, and lessons from responding to COVID-19. Clergy described a moral responsibility and willingness to support HIV screening, treatment, prevention medication, and care. However, few were familiar with the federal plan or with messages about treatment preventing sexual transmission. Many recommended culturally tailored communication and were willing to participate in campaigns addressing stigma and promoting biomedical services. Nearly all believed technical assistance would help faith organizations partner with local health centers. These qualitative findings represent participating clergy members’ views, not all faith leaders in the South. The study identified opportunities and support needs; it did not test whether faith-based involvement increased testing, prevention, treatment, or viral suppression.

Key Takeaways

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