A Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate a Structural Intervention to Promote the Female Condom in New York State.

Publication/Presentation Date

7-1-2012

Abstract

We conducted a structural intervention to promote the female condom (FC), comparing 44 agencies randomized to a Minimal Intervention (MI) [developing action plans for promotion and free access] or an Enhanced Intervention (EI) [with the addition of counselor training]. Intervention effects were evaluated via surveys with agency directors, counselors and clients at baseline and 12 months. Agency-level outcomes of the FC did not differ between the two interventions at follow-up. Counselors in the EI showed significantly greater gains in FC knowledge and positive attitudes, although there was no difference in the proportion of clients counseled on the FC, which significantly increased in both conditions. There was a greater increase in intention to use the FC among clients in EI agencies. Intervention effects were stronger in medical agencies. Findings suggest that making subsidized FCs available and assisting agencies to formulate action plans led to increased FC promotion. Limitations and implications for future research and intervention efforts are discussed.

Volume

16

Issue

5

First Page

1121

Last Page

1132

ISSN

1573-3254

Disciplines

Business Administration, Management, and Operations | Health and Medical Administration | Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods

PubMedID

22484992

Department(s)

Administration and Leadership, Department of Community Health and Health Studies

Document Type

Article

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