Little qualitative research is available on the role of
frontline health service providers (FHSPs) in the implementation of clinical
trials, particularly in developing countries. This paper presents findings from
a qualitative study about the perspectives of FHSPs on future HIV vaccine
trials involving female sex workers (FSWs) and men who have sex with men (MSM)
in three districts of Karnataka, India. In particular, we explore FHSPs’
knowledge of and views on clinical trials in general, and examine their
potential willingness to play a role if such trials were introduced or implemented
in the region.
A field team of four researchers from Karnataka—two of whom
self-identified with FSW or MSM communities (“community researchers”) and two
with backgrounds in social work—conducted in-depth interviews with FHSPs.
Including community researchers in the study helped to build rapport with FSW
and MSM participants and facilitate in-depth discussions. A coding scheme for
transcribed and translated data was developed using a framework analysis
approach. Data was then analysed thematically using a combination of a priori
and emergent codes.
Over half of FHSPs demonstrated limited knowledge or
understanding of clinical trials. Despite reported skepticism around the
testing of HIV vaccines in developing countries and concerns around potential
side effects, most FHSPs strongly advocated for the implementation of HIV
vaccine clinical trials in Karnataka. Further, most FHSPs expressed their
willingness to be involved in future HIV vaccine clinical trials in varying
capacities.
Given that FHSPs are often directly involved in the
promotion of health and well-being of FSWs and MSM, they are well-positioned to
play leadership, ethical, and communicative roles in future HIV vaccine trials.
However, our findings reveal a lack of awareness of clinical trials among FHSP
participants, suggesting an important area for capacity building and staff
development before viable and ethical clinical trials can be set up in the
region.
Full article
at:
By:
Satyanarayana Ramanaik
Centre for Multi-Disciplinary
Development Research, Dharwad, Karnataka, India
Satyanarayana Ramanaik, B. M. Ramesh
Karnataka Health Promotion
Trust, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
Leigh M. McClarty, B. M. Ramesh, Monika Doshi, Marissa L.
Becker, Robert R. Lorway
Centre for Global Public Health,
Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg,
Manitoba, Canada
Shamshad Khan
Department of Communication,
University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of
America
Marissa L. Becker
Department of Medical
Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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