Can Soul Fathers improve Antiretroviral adherence in Orthodox Ethiopia?

Background: The Amhara region of Ethiopia faces an epidemic of HIV/AIDS, where prevalence is 50% higher than the national prevalence of 1.4%. Research demonstrates that religious leaders may be influential in improving Antiretroviral adherence. The cities of Gondar and Debark, Ethiopia are located in the Amhara region, where Orthodox Christianity accounts for nearly 50% of the population and informs much of the population's health seeking behaviors. It is hypothesized that Soul Fathers, which are specialized priests, may serve as promising entry points for improving antiretroviral adherence in these specific geographic areas. Methods: In-depth, structured interviews will be conducted with three groups of ART patients (Adherent, Lost, Default) at both Gondar University Hospital and Debark Hospital. Participants will be chosen through purposive sampling and interviews will cease when saturation of data has been reached. The researchers will additionally conduct a series of focus group discussions with Soul Fathers in both Gondar and Debark. Results will be analyzed using grounded theory. Results: Preliminary findings from a baseline needs assessment conducted last March support the research hypothesis where 67% (n=33) of those interviewed held the belief that educated Soul Fathers can help to improve HIV/AIDS care in Orthodox Ethiopia. Leaders of both faith and medical institutions identified this as a potentially powerful area for integration. Conclusions: It is anticipated that the findings of this research will help to inform the planning of program interventions and policies directed toward improving HIV/AIDS care in Northwestern Ethiopia.