معرفی
Patrick O'Byrne is a Full Professor of Nursing at the University of Ottawa. He specializes in public health nursing and HIV prevention, with a focus on marginalized populations and the intersection of health and law. As the Principal Investigator for the groundbreaking GetaKit Study, he pioneered free at-home HIV self-testing in Canada. He also leads the nurse-led PrEP-RN clinic, advocating for task-shifting HIV prevention to public health nurses. His work emphasizes culturally sensitive care for high-risk groups, including men who have sex with men, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those affected by substance use disorders.
Education:
- 2016: Nurse Practitioner Diploma, Queen’s University
- 2010: Post-Doctorate in Medicine, University of Toronto
- 2009: Post-Doctorate in Nursing, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)
- 2008: PhD in Nursing, University of Ottawa
- 2005: MScN (Transfer to PhD), University of Ottawa
- 2004: BScN in Nursing, University of Ottawa
Research interests include HIV prevention strategies, STI diagnosis and treatment protocols, harm reduction services, and critical analyses of healthcare systems. He holds the OHTN Research Chair in Public Health and HIV Prevention, reflecting his leadership in advancing public health policy and interventions. His studies often intersect with social justice and policy reform, such as advocating for Criminal Code reform regarding HIV non-disclosure and analyzing the societal impacts of methadone maintenance treatment.
In advising and grants, he collaborates with students and colleagues on projects like the PEP2PrEP study and the SPRITE study. His work highlights nurse-led initiatives as cost-effective and equitable solutions to healthcare challenges. He also evaluates safer supply programs and their re-engagement strategies, addressing systemic issues in addiction care. His contributions extend to improving STI testing protocols and fostering interdisciplinary dialogue on health equity.
Labs/Teams: Dr. O'Byrne leads the GetaKit Project, a nurse-driven initiative that revolutionizes HIV/STI testing access through innovative self-testing approaches. He collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to integrate critical theory into public health practice.
