What is Zoom?
Zoom is a calling system that allows multiple people to be in the same meeting space by phone or video. With zoom, a person can call in by phone or use WiFi to join by computer/laptop. The BRIDGES team will provide further instructions if you enroll in our study.
Zoom is HIPAA compliant.
Do I have to purchase materials for this study?
All you will need for this study is access to a phone to participate. You do not need to purchase any electronic devices or any other materials for this study.
What are the next steps after I screen eligible for the study?
If you screen eligible and would like to be a part of our study, we will work with you to schedule your first study visit which will occur over zoom video or call. The first study visit will last about an hour and a half and you will be told if are in the group to attend classes on accessing services.
I’m a transgender woman living with HIV, can I participate in this study?
Absolutely, our study is inclusive of all women!
What is the timeframe of The BRIDGES Project?
Your involvement in The BRIDGES Project will last for six months. All participants will have three study visits, one when they enroll, one three months after they enroll, and one six months after they enroll.
Half of women who join The BRIDGES Project will also be asked to take classes one time a week for six weeks over zoom video or call.
All women will also be asked for permission for The BRIDGES Project to request your medical records from your care providers.
Will there be monetary compensation for those who participate in the study?
Yes, enrolled women may earn up to $185 in the form of e-gift cards for their time.
What e-gift cards can I choose from?
You can choose from the following e-gift cards.
- Wal-Mart
- Amazon
- Albertsons
- Target
- Whole Foods
- Starbucks
- Food 4 Less
How will this study benefit me?
It is possible that participating in this study may help you increase your knowledge on some issues, including barriers to HIV services, coping skills, and support services. Also, you may benefit from knowledge or referrals for additional medical care, including mental health, substance use, and domestic violence services and hotlines.
What is involved in each study call?
First Study Call: During your first call, you will be asked to answer survey questions asked by a study staff member. Questions will be about you, your life experiences, mental health, physical health, history of HIV care and treatment , social support, health care interactions, and thoughts on medical care. This survey will take approximately an hour of your time.
- Randomization: Following the first study call, you will be randomly put in either (1) Standard of Care or (2) an extra sessions group.
Second and Third Study Calls: At each follow-up call, you will be asked to answer survey questions at both 3 months and 6 months after your first call. The surveys will include all topics covered in the first survey, as well as information on HIV care and support care usage, and ART use.
What is involved in the classes?
If you are randomly put into the extra sessions group, you will be asked to attend The BRIDGES Project Group Sessions by zoom. Sessions will start approximately within one month after your first study call, and will happen every week for 6 weeks.
The 6 group sessions will include the following topics:
- Class 1: Emotional Awareness
- Class 2: Emotional Regulation
- Class 3: Emotionally Engaged Living
- Class 4: Identifying and Changing Relationship Patterns
- Class 5: Increasing Assertive Communication and Behavior
- Class 6: Flexibility in Relationships
The group sessions will be in English and last 2 hours.
Is my participation confidential?
Every reasonable effort will be made to keep our study calls and records confidential. We will adhere to all regulatory guidelines and local laws and regulations for confidentiality and safety monitoring and protection.
Join The BRIDGES Project Today!
The BRIDGES Project 