In San Diego (SD) County, Latinos make up 33% of the population, but comprise 43% of new HIV diagnoses. In 2016, Latinos (21.1/100,000) and men (26.8/100,000) had the highest rates of new HIV diagnoses in SD County, greater than California state (14.3, 22.5, respectively) and national estimates (17.2, 24.7, respectively). Latino men have worse HIV continuum of care outcomes in SD County than White men. Moreover, the percent of undiagnosed Latino men is unknown and likely high, with 63% of all HIV diagnoses among Latinos in SD County being late (AIDS within 1 year of diagnosis). Barriers to HCC uptake for Latino men. Socio-structural barriers (e.g., stigma, discrimination, medical mistrust, acculturation, legal involvement, distance to clinic) and syndemic co-morbidities (e.g., mental health, substance use) are linked to Latino men “falling off” early in the HIV continuum of care.

The goal of this study is to utilize implementation science research to improve HIV testing and care engagement (PrEP/HIV care) outcomes among Latino men in San Diego County, and to reduce men’s socio-structural and syndemic barriers to care. In partnership with San Ysidro Health (specialty HIV service provider), the adapted implementation model will optimize reach to Latino men and improve implementation of mobile outreach, peer navigation, and care coordination – three evidence based practices that are particularly effective among Latino populations.