WiseApp for Spanish-Speaking Latino HIV Patients

This study is focused on improving health outcomes for Spanish-speaking Latino individuals living with HIV in the United States and the Dominican Republic. These populations face unique challenges in adhering to antiretroviral therapy (ART), which is crucial for managing HIV effectively. The study seeks to enhance ART adherence using a mobile application called WiseApp, which is linked to a smart pill box to help users keep track of their medication. This is particularly important because Latinos are the largest and fastest growing ethnic minority group in the US and are disproportionately affected by HIV. By translating and adapting WiseApp for Spanish speakers, the study aims to make it culturally accessible and improve long-term health outcomes. The study involves testing the WiseApp through randomized controlled trials to evaluate how effective and sustainable it is for Spanish-speaking participants. Participants will use the app to monitor their ART adherence, and the study will collect data on medication adherence, quality of life, and symptom burden. Researchers will also explore the barriers and facilitators to the app's widespread use. The study benefits from the collaboration between Columbia University and Clínica de Familia in the Dominican Republic, as well as the presence of a large Latino community in Washington Heights, New York City. Results will be measured by changes in self-reported ART adherence, using a scale from 0 to 100 to gauge adherence levels.