Perceived feasibility of peer-delivered mental health and psychosocial support interventions for people living with HIV/AIDS at Ryan White-funded clinics in the southeastern United States: a Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research study of health care worker perspectives

Abstract

Background People living with HIV/AIDS and violence-related trauma histories (PLWH/T) may have unmet mental health needs due to high rates of mental disorders coupled with mental health provider shortages, as well as other barriers to care. Our prior work with PLWH/T in Metro Atlanta revealed a desire for peer-delivered mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) services, such as peer mentorship/navigation, peer support groups, cognitive behavioral therapy, and Psychological First Aid/Mental Health First Aid. Methods In the present qualitative study, we assessed the feasibility of implementing or expanding these interventions through interviews with health care workers (HCWs) at Ryan White-funded clinics (RWCs) using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research to guide data collection and analysis. Results Key barriers included structural characteristics (i.e., staffing limitations), lack of available resources (e.g., funding), and engaging innovation deliverers and innovation recipients. Key facilitators included financing (e.g., grants), need, and access to knowledge & information (e.g., training). Discussion Overall, RWC HCWs perceived these interventions to be feasible to implement/expand. Future research should assess cost-effectiveness and explore pathways of mobilizing peers to deliver MHPSS interventions to PLWH/T.