This is a Mentored Research Scientist Development Award (K01). HIV disclosure is a key stressor among HIV-affected families in Thailand, and the impact radiates throughout the family. By addressing HIV disclosure as a family matter, the proposed study aims to develop and pilot a culturally tailored intervention in Northeastern Thailand in Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
In Phase 1, formative research will be conducted using in-depth interviews with 20 People Living with HIV (PLH), 20 family members, and 10 healthcare providers to explore the concerns, barriers and motivators around HIV disclosure. In Phase 2, we will develop a culturally tailored HIV disclosure intervention by engaging 20 PLH through a series of focus groups. In Phase 3, we will pilot test the intervention with 40 PLH and compare their physical, psychological and social outcomes with the outcomes of 40 PLH in the standard care group. Follow-up assessments with PLH will be conducted at 6 months.