Harlem Hospital peer adherence support program at a glance

Peer program founded: 1998

Program mission: improve treatment adherence for people living with HIV/AIDS

Number of peer educators: 4-6; A total of 15 peers have worked in the program from 1998 to date.

Number of clients peers have served: About 300 clients over the past 9 years.

Funding source: NY State Department of Health AIDS Institute, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Health Resources and Services Administration HIV/AIDS Bureau Special Projects of National Significance

Work Schedule: Part time, up to 15 hours/week

Compensation: Peers are paid an hourly rate

Peer responsibilities:

• Provide one-on-on social and emotional support to clients
• Help clients navigate the hospital, access needed services
• Coach clients in adherence skills
• Provide feedback to adherence program staff
• Attend/co-facilitate program support groups
• Facilitate communication with providers
• Participate in case management, individual supervision sessions

Success measures: Improved biologic indicators, adherence to care and treatment