David Forrest

Dr. David Forrest is an Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies in Anthropology at the University of Miami's College of Arts and Sciences, specializing in public health interventions for marginalized populations.

His research develops innovative healthcare models for people who inject drugs (PWID), particularly through syringe services programs (SSPs). The CHARIOT project implements tele-harm reduction strategies to improve HIV prevention and substance use treatment access.

Studies examine rapid antiretroviral initiation in SSP settings, barriers to PrEP adoption among opioid users, and systemic discrimination in healthcare delivery. Recent publications demonstrate successful viral suppression through SSP-based HIV care models.

Current NIH-funded projects include:

• Clinical trials of comprehensive tele-harm reduction
• Studies on PrEP willingness in substance-using populations
• Implementation science for marginalized community healthcare