Factors influencing patients on antiretroviral therapy loss to follow up: A qualitative analysis of healthcare workers perspective
Date
2024
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
PLoS ONE
Abstract
Despite expanded and successful antiretroviral therapy program coverage, a large proportion of people drop out at different stages along their treatment course. As a result, treatment
gains do not reach a large proportion of these groups. It has been demonstrated that around
half of the patients who test Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive in Sub-Saharan
Africa are lost between testing and being considered for eligibility for therapy. The purpose
of this study was to determine the factors that influence patients on antiretroviral therapy
who lost to follow-up in HIV treatment clinics in Asunafo South District, Ahafo Region. We
used phenomenological qualitative research approach in conducting this study. Purposive
sampling was used to select respondents, while key informant interview was used to collect
the data. The major identified challenges in carrying out follow-up visits of patients on antiretroviral therapy were wrong addresses and phone numbers of clients, coupled with poor
telecommunication networks, geographical relocation of clients, poor documentation of
patients’ information, and non-availability of means of transport. The preferred reengage ment strategies identified in this study were: supply of drugs through home visits, intensive
education, engaging the services of community-based surveillance officers, enhanced regular phone call visits, adoption and use of an integrated antiretroviral therapy clinic, intensified education on HIV, and involvement of religious leaders. In conclusion, all clinicians and
stakeholders should consider the identified challenges and re-engagement strategies when
providing antiretroviral services
Description
Research Article
Keywords
patients, antiretroviral therapy, healthcare workers
Citation
Citation: Kogi R, Krah T, Asampong E (2024) Factors influencing patients on antiretroviral therapy loss to follow up: A qualitative analysis of healthcare workers perspective. PLoS ONE 19(6): e0304592. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal. pone.0304592