Abstract
BACKGROUND: Integrated care for patients living with HIV in rural and economically disadvantaged regions remains a critical challenge. This study aims to develop a 3D evaluation index system to assess the effectiveness of integrated medical care and prevention for patients living with HIV in county-level regions of China. The framework encompasses disease prevention, clinical treatment, and the integration of medical services with public health interventions. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to develop a scientifically validated, 3D evaluation index system for assessing the effectiveness of integrated medical care and prevention for patients living with HIV in county-level regions of China. METHODS: A structured Delphi method will be used to establish consensus among experts on key evaluation indicators. The study will begin with focus group discussions guided by the Valentijn Rainbow Model, followed by multiple rounds of Delphi surveys to refine the indicator system. A total of 75 experts will include clinical professionals, public health specialists, health policy researchers, and representatives from nongovernmental organizations. Experts will participate in iterative rounds, ranking and validating indicators using statistical methods such as the analytic hierarchy process and Kendall W coefficient to assess consensus. RESULTS: The Delphi study was initiated in April 2025, with 3 rounds of questionnaires distributed between May and September 2025. Data analysis is ongoing, and the finalized county-level HIV integration index system is expected to be published by spring 2026. The study is projected to be completed by January 2026. CONCLUSIONS: The developed evaluation system will offer a comprehensive and scientifically validated tool for assessing health care outcomes in resource-constrained settings, contributing to policy improvements for HIV service integration in China and other low-resource settings globally.