University of Missouri launches ACCELERATE clinical trial

ACCELERATE, A new study aimed at simplifying and accelerating antiretroviral therapy (ART) re-initiation for people living with HIV who have been out of care (meaning they have not seen an HIV health provider for more than six months and have not taken their HIV medication for at least one month), recently launched at the University of Missouri-Columbia, funded by Gilead Sciences.

Dima Dandachi, clinician and researcher at the University of Missouri and co-director of the Midwest D-CFAR’s Scientific Working Group, leads the trial as principal investigator. The ACCELERATE intervention includes outreach through Data to Care (D2C), providing telehealth appointments within 24 hours, a one-month free supply of HIV medication, and transportation support for follow-up visits. This study aims to assess the acceptability and feasibility of this care model, along with its effectiveness in re-engaging patients, restarting antiretroviral therapy, and achieving HIV viral suppression. By evaluating these strategies, we hope to provide valuable insights to help end the HIV epidemic and improve care for vulnerable populations.

The trial spans three sites: University of Missouri-Columbia, KC CARE in Kansas City, and Novus Health in St. Louis, with a mission to reach patients across Missouri.

For more information on ACCELERATE, reach out to Dima Dandachi or Hilal Abdessamad.