Disease Investigation Specialist Workforce Development: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Document Type

Presentation

Presentation Date

11-1-2015

Abstract or Description

Background: Disease investigation specialists (DIS), known by multiple names in the literature, perform many duties related to HIV prevention and care, including case management, partner notification, and HIV testing. DIS workers are instrumental in accomplishing the National HIV/AIDS Strategy goals of increasing access to care and improving HIV-related health outcomes. The purpose of this systematic review is to identify resources used by the DIS workforce in improving health outcomes and quality of life for those affected by HIV/AIDS.

Methods: Galileo was used to access Medline, PubMed, PsycInfo, and ProQuest. Search criteria included: case managers, disease intervention specialist, and disease investigation specialist. References from the initial articles were included in this search. Articles that were not full-text, were not peer-reviewed, or did not include the search term HIV were excluded.

Results: The systematic review yielded 9 articles that met the search criteria. The search yielded several articles pertaining to technological resources for DIS workforce. Repeating themes in the literature revealed that electronic clinical data (ECD) and health information technology (HIT) are relevant resources for DIS workers. There is a demonstrated need for ECD training as well as disclosure decision training.

Conclusions: Major themes included increasing utilization of electronic resources, lack of uniformity in training among various health networks and regions, and disclosure issues related to HIV status. Training needs could be addressed through standardized ECD/HIT and disclosure training curricula. Future research should investigate additional needs for training of the DIS workforce.

Sponsorship/Conference/Institution

American Public Health Association Annual Meeting (APHA)

Location

Chicago, IL

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