The studies ATN 140: LYNX and ATN 141: MyChoices opened for recruitment for usability testing in April. Both LYNX and MyChoices are anticipated to launch their randomized controlled trials in September 2018.
LYNX uses the Information-Motivation-Behaviors Skills (IMB) model in a highly interactive mobile app to promote accurate risk perception and increase HIV/STI testing and linkage to care among young men who have sex with men (YMSM). Key components of the app include Sex Pro (a personalized HIV risk score), a sex diary to facilitate accurate data collection; HIV/STI testing information and reminders; access to home HIV/STI testing options; a geospatial-based locator of HIV/STI testing sites and PrEP clinics; PrEP information and videos; and online PrEP navigation.
LYNX will enroll 15 participants across 2 sites for usability testing:
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases of the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida
- Adolescent and Young Adult Research (AYAR) at the CORE Center of the Cook County Health & Hospital System (CCHHS) in Chicago, IL
MyChoices is a theory-driven mobile app to increase HIV testing and PrEP uptake by YMSM. The app includes a brief risk assessment to customize user experience; links to web-based health information in text and video formats; referrals to local HIV and STI testing sites; development of a personalized HIV testing plan with built-in reminders; and links to access PrEP and ongoing testing with easy-to-access information about local testing and PrEP provision sites. The app also allows users to order home HIV and STI self-testing packages and has reminders and referrals for HIV testing using GPS functions, including geofencing (GPS-enabled text messages) when the participant is near testing services.
MyChoices will enroll 15 participants across 2 sites for usability testing:
- The Fenway Institute in Boston, MA
- Montefiore Children’s Hospital in the Bronx, NY