Increasing capacity in rehabilitation in the management of HIV: A case-based email intervention

Despite evidence of the role of rehabilitation in the management of HIV related disability, few rehabilitation professionals work in HIV care. Barriers include a dearth of knowledge about potential roles of rehabilitation professionals and an absence of research evidence. This study evaluated the extent to which case-based emails with links to an online guide to HIV rehabilitation increased awareness and capacity in rehabilitation professionals. 26 rehabilitation professionals were emailed 6 case studies highlighting salient issues related to HIV and rehabilitation and directing participants to the guide. Following the intervention, each participant completed an interview to assess uptake and impact of the guide. The interviews underwent a qualitative content analysis. Participants increased or reinforced their knowledge, increased confidence in the management of HIV, and recognized the relevance of prior knowledge and skills to HIV care. Clinical cases integrated as an email intervention can promote learning and use of an electronic evidence-informed resource.