The DCAT was opened in 2014 and is directed by Professor Orrell. DCAT research staff is primarily based at the GRO research site in Gugulethu. The site consists of six former shipping containers that were converted into a fully-functional, previously Division of AIDS (DAIDS) accredited, community research site. The DCAT team focuses on community-based HIV and TB adherence and therapeutic research and is built on South African Scout Hall land, adjacent to the Gugulethu Community Health Centre. DCAT is situated within 5-8km of all the clinics to be involved in the study.
Clinical Space at DCAT
The site is based adjacent to the Gugulethu Community Health Center, with direct access to the grounds and facilities of the Health Center. Patients are recruited from the Health Center, and can be escorted there if they are unwell at a study visit. In addition, DCAT has four fully equipped medical examinations rooms with a resuscitation trolley to SAHPRA specifications. Prof. Orrell, a clinical pharmacologist with over 20 years of experience in HIV care, and a special interest in adherence to antituberculosis and antiretroviral therapy provides clinical expertise, together with Dr. Lauren Jennings and Dr. Chantel Schreuder.