You & Me: Test and Treat

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate a systematic, scalable, community-engaged test and treat protocol that improved rapid access to at-home COVID-19 tests, provided clear next step guidance, and connected underserved populations to local treatment resources. The study also evaluated a community engagement toolkit designed to support community-based test distribution and guide test and treat responses. The central hypothesis was that the toolkit would enable rapid, community-driven implementation of a scientifically robust public health intervention.

Materials/Methods: The protocol distributed at-home tests for self-administration and supplied guidance, education, and referral information for local treatment access. The study was conducted over 15 months in two communities, Pitt County in North Carolina and Merced County in California. Community partners in both counties implemented the protocol and applied the toolkit. The study assessed the feasibility, responsiveness, and functionality of the toolkit in supporting community-based deployment.

Outcome/Impact: The results showed how effectively the toolkit supported rapid, community-led implementation of test and treat strategies. The project strengthened access to testing and treatment guidance in underserved areas and supported a framework for scalable public health responses during COVID-19.