DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2026.38.4.253 ISSN: 0899-9546

Development of a Layperson Injector Training for the Home-Based Administration of Long-Acting Injectable Antiretroviral Therapies for Persons With HIV

Beth Bourdeau, Alicia T. Bolton, Jonathan Van Nuys, Michelle Palomares, Erin Moore, Greg M. Rebchook, Starley B. Shade, Orlando O. Harris, Kate Buchacz, Jesse O'Shea, Parya Saberi

Long-acting injectable antiretroviral therapy (LAI-ART) has the potential to transform HIV treatment by improving adherence, reducing stigma, and expanding access through decentralized care. The INVITE-Home study evaluates home-based LAI-ART administration by trained nonmedical treatment buddies (TBYs) selected by people with HIV (PWH). This article describes the development of a TBY training curriculum guided by Adult Learning Theory and refined through iterative stakeholder input. The five-phase process included review of existing materials, qualitative interviews with clinicians, PWH, and TBYs (n = 50), curriculum development, community advisory panel feedback (n = 9), and final refinement. Stakeholders emphasized structured hands-on practice, multimodal learning resources, and accessible language to build technical skills and confidence. The resulting curriculum integrates synchronous and asynchronous learning tailored to diverse learning preferences. Home-based LAI-ART may enhance privacy, reduce clinic burden, and support equitable, person-centered HIV care while maintaining safe administration and clinical oversight.

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