Peer support implementation strategy in the Primary Health Care setting: scoping review

Abstract

Objective

To map the use of the peer support implementation strategy in the Primary Health Care (PHC) setting through a scoping review of randomized clinical trials, reporting its results in health and the implementation process.

Methods

The development of this scoping review was guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. Scopus, SciELO, PubMed, Web of Science databases and gray literature were searched. Articles published in the seven previous years (2017 to 2023) related to the Primary Health Care setting, and reporting health outcomes and at least one implementation outcome were selected.

Results

Initially, 259 articles were mapped. After removing duplicates and applying the criteria, 15 were selected. The health problems addressed were mostly related to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and chronic non-communicable diseases. The main implementation outcomes presented involved adoption, acceptability, reach, fidelity, feasibility, sustainability and appropriateness. Few studies adopted theoretical implementation frameworks to conduct and report the findings.

Conclusion

The peer support strategy has been used in some PHC settings, with mapping that covers areas such as mental health, STIs and chronic non-communicable diseases. Positive health impacts included viral suppression of HIV, significant reduction in systolic blood pressure, and a decrease in the amount of alcohol consumed. However, studies analyzing effectiveness in other PHC scenarios are still lacking, especially regarding fidelity, feasibility, sustainability, appropriateness and cost.

Implementation Science; Public health; Peer influence; Primary health care; Health promotion