UnknownNot Applicable

Overcoming Geography With Technology: Medical Drones Project

Uganda1,450 participantsStarted 2021-09-22

Plain-language summary

In this study, the investigators shall evaluate the use unmanned air vehicles (medical drones) to deliver ART to adult patients eligible/enrolled in community DSD models in Bufumira Islands, Kalangala district. The geography of the islands is ideal for this project because of the flat landscape and water coverage. The investigators hypothesize that the use of drones would be acceptable to patients and stakeholders, reduce facility drug stock outs, increase retention in care by 10% in intervention (at 12 months) compared to the control health centres and be cost neutral (to the patients and health sector perspectives). The investigators will also undertake evaluation of an efficient sample delivery system using medical drones especially for expansive rural areas like Moyo and Adjumani.

Who can participate

Age range18 Years

SexALL

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AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Adult (\>18 years) or emancipated minor (15-17 years) who is HIV-infected and receiving antiretroviral therapy in Bufumira sub-county or non PLHIV adult who has attended a government health facility in Bufumira sub-county * Resident in Kalangala district for at least the preceding 12 months with an intent to stay for a minimum next 12 months (resident is defined as those who spend more than 9 out of 12 months per year in Kalangala district, even if they move within the district) * Evidence of a personally signed and dated informed consent document indicating that the subject (or a legal representative) has been informed of all pertinent aspects of the study. * Willingness to comply with survey procedures Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with mental illness or any other medical condition that compromises decision making process. * Any other clinical condition that, in the opinion of the site investigator, would make the participant unsuitable for the study or unable to comply with joining a DSD group.

What they're measuring

Acceptability for ART delivery as reported using qualitative methods with key stakeholders including health care workers, district officials, people living with HIV

Timeframe: 24 months

Trial details

NCT IDNCT05259761

SponsorMakerere University

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeOBSERVATIONAL

Primary completion2022-03-22

Contact for this trial

Paul Gonza

0312307000 pgonza@idi.co.ug