Background: Interventions to enhance ART adherence are critical to prevent the development of transmissible resistant virus but require detailed understanding of barriers to adherence. Objective: To understand HIV + patients' experiences with taking ART and factors serving as barriers and facilitators to medication-taking. Methods: We conducted five focus groups between 12/98 through 3/99 of 24 HIV + patients on ART from two North Carolina Clinics. Two coders reviewed, independently coded and analyzed all focus groups. Coders identified broad domains and within the domains, themes, by generalizing discussion that was similar in content, frequent and salient within groups. Results: Among participants (ages 28-45; 2/3 male; 50% African-American; illness duration < 1 to 15 years), coders identified 3 broad domains of Obstacles to taking ART: 1) Difficulty scheduling complex regimens into daily activities; 2) Medications' physiologic effects; 3) Psychological and emotional factors. Three general domains of Facilitators identified were: 1) Technological aids; 2) Social support; 3) Support from medical practitioners. Every participant described difficulty fitting their regimen into some very basic aspect of their daily activities. Most participants perceived a grave social stigma with revealing their HIV status that seemed to prevent them from seeking critical social support, using technological aids, and taking their medication. For each domain, a selection of themes with quotes that represent and bring to life the themes will be presented. Conclusion: It is important that providers initiating therapy, assess patients' perceptions of stigma, privacy and social support related to taking ART.
Learning Objectives: This session will provide participants with detailed qualitative information about barriers and facilitators faced by patients with HIV taking ART. This session will offer practical thoughts about how health care professionals can enhance adherence. among patients with ART
Keywords: Adherence, HIV/AIDS
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.