Barriers and Enablers of HIV Treatment Adherence in South Africa
Author Information
Author(s): Dahab Mison, Charalambous Salome, Hamilton Robin, Fielding Katherine, Kielmann Karina, Churchyard Gavin J, Grant Alison D
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
What are the barriers and facilitators to adherence to ART in a workplace program in South Africa?
Conclusion
There is a need to find effective ways to support adherence to ART even if individuals do not accept biomedical concepts of HIV disease or choose to use traditional medicines.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients reported that alcohol use and fear of stigma were barriers to adherence.
- Traditional medicine use was reported to negatively affect adherence to ART.
- Long waiting times at clinics contributed to dissatisfaction and potential non-adherence.
Takeaway
Some people have a hard time sticking to their HIV medicine because they don't believe they have HIV or they use traditional medicine instead.
Methodology
Key informant interviews with 12 participants including ART patients and health service providers.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the qualitative nature of the study and the specific demographic of participants.
Limitations
The study's small sample size and focus on a specific workplace setting may limit generalizability.
Participant Demographics
Six male ART patients and five health service providers, including one traditional healer.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website