Correlates of Regular Use of HIV primary Care by HIV positive Haitian Immigrants in Miami, Florida

Background In the United States, Haitian immigrants are among the groups that have been hardest hit by the HIV epidemic, yet evidence indicates that they are among those with the least access to health care.

Methods We recruited 100 HIV+ Haitians from an HIV primary care clinic In Miami, Florida as part of a study to examine factors that are related to regular use of HIV primary care. Guided by the Andersen Model of Utilization of Health Services we collected data on socio-demographics; knowledge of HIV/AIDS and health issues; use of HIV primary care; and behaviors, perceptions and attitudes toward health care. We used Chi square and logistic regression to evaluate the association of the dependent variable - regular use of primary HIV care defined as four or more HIV primary care visits - with the other variables listed above.

Results We found no age, gender, health status, or level of social support differences in terms of HIV care use. However, education and mental status had the greatest influence on whether these individuals adhered to a regular schedule of care. Individuals who attended high school and elementary school were respectively10 and 4 times as likely to have 4+ visits, than those who never attended school. Participants who scored low for a hostility, anxiety, or depression subscale were significantly more likely to have had four or more HIV visits, compared to those who scored high.

Conclusion These findings have implications for patient education and public health intervention targeting HIV positive Haitians.