Community-Engaged Research to Improve the COVID-19 Testing Cascade Among Underserved Populations in the US Caribbean Territories

Background: The study goals were to enhance testing implementation strategies in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico (USVI and PR) utilizing community based assets and cultural responsiveness to address barriers to full participation in the testing continuum from diagnosis to self-isolation. The study also aimed to assess the diffusion and uptake of FDA authorized and approved testing technologies across existing and emerging testing models.

Materials/Methods: Partnerships with federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and community-based organizations (CBOs) in USVI and PR were leveraged to refine and implement a multi-component intervention to increase testing, contact tracing, and safe and effective quarantine and isolation, with a focus on the most vulnerable populations.

Outcome/Impact: The study determined intervention components that provided the necessary education/health promotion information, training, and resources that were needed to address barriers at the FQHC, CBO, and community-level to adopt, implement, and disseminate new testing technologies. Sustainability of this model for integration of future technologies or vaccines was addressed and assessed.