Factors associated with retention in HIV care at Sediba Hope Medical Centre
Southern African Journal of HIV Medicine
| Field | Value | |
| Title | Factors associated with retention in HIV care at Sediba Hope Medical Centre | |
| Creator | Ramdas, Nishana Meyer, Johanna C. Cameron, David | |
| Description | Background: Lost to follow-up (LTFU) is a major challenge that hinders the success of antiretroviral treatment (ART).Objective: To identify factors conducted to a low LTFU rate.Methods: We conducted a two-part descriptive and quantitative study. Part 1 comprised interviews with clinic staff to determine their perspectives on LTFU and to establish the clinic’s follow-up procedures for patients on ART. Part 2 of the study was a retrospective review of clinic and patient records. LTFU patients were identified and those with contact details were contacted for telephonic interview to determine if they were still on ART and/or their reasons for becoming LTFU.Results: A low LTFU rate (7.9%; N = 683) was identified. Work-related stress, and lack of transport and funds were reported reasons for LTFU. Monthly visits, non-adherent defaulters and LTFU patients were tracked by an electronic system (SOZO). Factors contributing to high rates of retention in care were: location of the clinic in the inner city, thus in close proximity to patients’ homes or work; clinic operating on Saturdays, which was convenient for patients who could not attend during the week; an appointment/booking system that was in place and strictly adhered to; a reminder SMS being sent out the day before an appointment; individual counselling sessions at each visit and referrals where necessary; and a stable staff complement and support group at the clinic.Conclusion: Achieving a low LTFU rate is possible by having a patient-centred approach and monitoring systems in place. | |
| Publisher | AOSIS | |
| Date | 2015-07-01 | |
| Identifier | 10.4102/sajhivmed.v16i1.347 | |
| Source | Southern African Journal of HIV Medicine; Vol 16, No 1 (2015); 6 pages 2078-6751 1608-9693 | |
| Language | eng | |
| Relation |
The following web links (URLs) may trigger a file download or direct you to an alternative webpage to gain access to a publication file format of the published article:
https://sajhivmed.org.za/index.php/hivmed/article/view/347/537
https://sajhivmed.org.za/index.php/hivmed/article/view/347/538
https://sajhivmed.org.za/index.php/hivmed/article/view/347/539
https://sajhivmed.org.za/index.php/hivmed/article/view/347/508
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