Challenging some of the system’s fundamental assumptions, and thousands of hours of extra work, is how Dr Réka Gustafson (pictured at right) , Val Munroe (at left) and Chris Buchner (middle) were able to successfully roll out the STOP HIV pilot and truly make measurable improvements in the lives of many people and on a population level.
The STOP HIV pilot work was in addition to their regular responsibilities,” said Dr Patricia Daly. “This involved thousands of hours of extra work including leading meetings and giving presentations to staff, physicians and community partners to advocate for change. As a result of their leadership, the pilot success has led to the provincial expansion of STOP beginning April 1, 2013.”
Dr Daly nominated the leaders for a People First award, which was given to Reka, Val and Chris at the last True North Forum.
“It’s an honour but this award is really shared with an incredible team who have provided the skill, effort and passion in implementing multiple strategies,” said Val Munroe. “It is also shared with everyone who supported the work by incorporating new processes into their already busy areas. This is an example of how working together we can make a huge difference in a short period of time.”
“One of the most rewarding parts of this project was working with physicians who are not usually directly involved with HIV testing and HIV care,” said Dr Réka Gustafson. “Changing the former paradigm of HIV testing, where only those perceived to be at high risk would be offered the test, meant that physicians in all areas of practice, especially acute care, included HIV testing in their practice. They were able to make a real difference and became enthusiastic supporters of the program.”
“The biggest challenge was avoiding the “same old” approach and recognizing that to truly make a sustainable improvement in the system of care, we needed to look at the entire system and challenge some of its fundamental assumptions,” said Chris Buchner. “People were skeptical, but because of many very skilled and passionate people, we have made tangible, measureable improvements people’s lives and on a population level. Collaborations across public health, community care and acute services as well as partnership with Providence Healthcare will serve us well as we roll out the initiative to Coastal and Richmond.
More info about STOP HIV
Change HIVstory website
Testing patients in Vancouver hospitals diagnoses more than 30 people with HIV in first year
STOP HIV/AIDS pilot project site
Complete list of People First Award winners