Dataset from Using a Community-level Just-in-Time Adaptive Intervention to Address COVID-19 Testing Disparities: A Population-based Study

Background: The purpose of this study was to address significant COVID-19 disparities affecting vulnerable populations in Texas, including underserved Hispanics and African Americans, individuals with medical comorbidities, and people experiencing homelessness. These disparities were severe in South Texas, Houston/Harris County, and Northeast Texas, which faced crisis-level surges in infections and deaths. Testing disparities were evident but understudied, creating a need for rapid deployment and evaluation of prevention, diagnostic, and mitigation strategies.

Materials/Methods: This study used existing partnerships through the UTHealth Center for Clinical and Translational Science to identify real-time disease hotspots and testing deserts, and to guide the rapid deployment of multilevel just-in-time adaptive interventions. Surveillance data from regional health departments and hospital records were used to estimate real-time testing availability, uptake patterns, incidence rates, and positive test rates. Spatial-temporal modeling identified and predicted dynamic hotspots and testing deserts. Multilevel network modeling assessed interorganizational networks, and network optimization identified organizations positioned to strengthen coordination of testing and services. Community networks supported the development, implementation, and evaluation of targeted multilevel interventions, including Community Just-In-Time Adaptive Interventions and an embedded evaluation of community health worker–delivered diagnostics.

Outcome/Impact: The study improved understanding of testing disparities and infection dynamics across the three Texas regions. The study guided rapid adaptation and deployment of community-driven interventions and strengthened coordination across local organizations. The work supported increased reach, uptake, and implementation of SARS-CoV-2 testing among vulnerable populations and informed efforts during the vaccine rollout.