Poor engagement in care contributes to HIV- and TB-related morbidity and mortality in South Africa (SA). Community health workers (CHWs) are frontline lay health workers who work to re-engage patients who are lost to follow-up (LTFU) in HIV/TB care. Patients with depression and substance use (SU) have a greater likelihood of being LTFU in HIV/TB care, and there is evidence that CHWs may exhibit stigma towards these patients. When CHWs have negative attitudes towards these patients, on average they spend less time with these patients, are less likely to implement evidence-based practices, and deliver less patient-centered care. Therefore, this purpose of this study is to examine the implementation and preliminary effectiveness of a brief training ("Siyakhana"). The purpose of this training is to provide CHWs with psychoeducation, skills, and support around working with HIV/TB patients with depression/SU. The investigators will assess the training's implementation and changes in CHWs' stigma towards HIV/TB patients with depression/SU.
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
CHW Stigma Towards Substance Use
Timeframe: Change between baseline assessment and 6-month follow-up (approximately 6-months post-training)
CHW Stigma Towards Depression
Timeframe: Change between baseline assessment and 6-month follow-up (approximately 6-months post-training)
Training Feasibility
Timeframe: 3-months post-training
Acceptability
Timeframe: 3-months post-training
CHW Training Fidelity
Timeframe: 3-months post-training