Rapid Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Protocol

The contract outlines the development and implementation of protocols for Rapid Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), aimed at initiating HIV treatment immediately upon diagnosis or reengagement in care for people living with HIV (PLWH). Rapid ART, for this solicitation, is defined as starting treatment within seven calendar days of diagnosis or disclosure, though best practice suggests initiation within 72 hours. The goal is to improve health outcomes and reduce transmission by ensuring timely access to therapy. Awardees will be responsible for creating comprehensive protocols that address staff training, clear roles and responsibilities, partnerships with HIV care providers, and ensuring access to affordable medications regardless of insurance status. The protocols must include detailed workflows from positive HIV test results to medication start, address anticipated barriers with strategies to overcome them, and specify processes for identifying and linking both newly diagnosed patients and those who have fallen out of care. Additionally, the protocols will require counseling patients on medication adherence, side effects, and benefits of ART at the time of initiation, with follow-up appointments scheduled within one to two weeks to evaluate psychosocial needs and provide ongoing support. Emphasis is placed on crafting evidence-based, streamlined, and practical protocols that effectively integrate Rapid ART into existing emergency department workflows, minimizing handoffs and normalizing ART initiation as a standard care component. The contract is issued by the California Health Care Agency and responses are due by the end of June 2026. The contract administrator, Karen Leland, is the primary contact for this solicitation, which is aimed at agencies capable of supporting rapid and effective HIV treatment initiation in line with public health best practices.