240 Strategies used by trained Peer Mentors in an intervention designed to increase engagement in new modalities for HIV prevention

Abstract

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Peer supporters are frequently engaged to help people with marginalized identities access a range of health services, including newly developed interventions. Understanding how that individuals in these lay roles approach their interactions with clients may help to inform their future selection and training in order to support T3-T4 translation. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: We examined the strategies and perspectives of Peer Mentors in an HIV/STI prevention intervention (Passport to Wellness, PtW) designed to encourage regular screening for HIV and sexually transmitted infections and the use of HIV biomedical prevention (pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis). Fifteen men were trained to serve as Mentors for this novel PtW intervention for Black sexual minority men (SMM) that was being tested in Los Angeles County. Surveys were conducted at the start of their training and both surveys and semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted after the Mentors had provided peer services for several months. Thematic analysis was conducted on interview transcripts for the 10 men who actually served as program Mentors during the pilot study and small randomized trial of the intervention. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Peer Mentors described trust, rapport, accountability, encouragement, and flexibility as key characteristics of successful mentor-mentee relationships. The Mentors, their peers, and the mentor training and intervention design facilitated these dynamics. Mentors established trust, rapport, and accountability in the first 1-2 sessions with mentees through self-disclosure, reassurance, non-judgement, and discussion of roles and expectations. They also reviewed the goals and referrals developed at baseline with each mentee and used this plan as an accountability tool throughout their sessions. Participants had also viewed an introductory video and read a short mentor biography prior to their first mentor meeting -- a step mentors felt increased participants’ enthusiasm and willingness to engage. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Despite similar histories and demographics that made them peers, the mentors had progressed beyond those they served and often approached interactions with mentees in a manner similar to that of academic mentors. Mentors’ expertise and life progress elevates their roles; additional tools from academic mentoring may aid their training and support.