GRAP Opportunity – Data processing and basic analysis for the Wisemama Study (Bachman)

Opportunity ID: 02-Bachman

Project Title: Improving ART Retention and Adherence in Uganda among pregnant and post-partum women: The WiseMama Study: Data processing and basic analysis of baseline survey data

Faculty Mentor: Mary Bachman DeSilva

Description Statement:

The WiseMama Study is designed to increase our understanding of interventions that are feasible and effective in helping HIV-positive pregnant and post-partum women (PPPW) to maintain high adherence to antiretroviral (ARV) medications. The study will involve: a) assessing the feasibility and acceptability of the use of Wisepill, an innovative pill container equipped with real-time electronic data monitoring capacity, by PPPW in Uganda; b) generating preliminary effectiveness data of a 2-step feedback intervention on retention in care, antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, and clinical outcomes (CD4 and HIV viral load (VL)); c) exploring patient and provider perspectives on barriers and facilitators to retention in care and adherence to ART in our study population.

We will implement WiseMama over 2.5 years by using a randomized controlled trial design. We are enrolling 160 pregnant women in two clinic sites in Uganda where “Option B+” is the standard of care. Under this policy, all pregnant women who test positive for HIV access antenatal and HIV services (including antiretroviral therapy, (ART)) concurrently. HIV-positive pregnant women enrolled in the study are randomized to either an intervention or comparison group for the approximately 6-month intervention. The study will follow all women for an additional 3 months to determine the potential sustainability of the impact of the intervention. In addition to adherence and clinical data, quantitative and qualitative data will be collected using survey instruments, focus groups, and in-depth interviews.

Scope of Work:

We are looking for one student to assist with the cleaning, coding, and basic analysis of the baseline quantitative survey of women.

Minimum skills desired:

RA should have quantitative skills and skills in SAS, R, STATA or similar statistical package. (SAS preferred). Previous data analysis/management experience and interest in maternal and child health or health behavior preferred. Recommend students to have completed BS 723 (Introduction to Statistical Computing) at minimum.

Time / Date Expectations:

10 hours per week, beginning Jan 2016 or sooner if possible. Basic analysis would ideally be completed by spring break 2016.

Additional Material Requested: None

Number of Positions: One (1)

Logistics & Support: Biweekly meetings