Effect of Extended Counseling on Pre-ARV Care in Uganda
Author Information
Author(s): Muhamadi Lubega, Tumwesigye Nazarius M, Kadobera Daniel, Marrone Gaetano, Wabwire-Mangen Fred, Pariyo George, Peterson Stefan, Ekström Anna Mia
Primary Institution: Makerere University School of Public Health
Hypothesis
Can extended counseling improve the uptake of pre-antiretroviral care among newly diagnosed HIV patients in Uganda?
Conclusion
Extended counseling significantly increases the likelihood of newly diagnosed HIV patients taking up pre-ARV care.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants in the intervention arm were 80% more likely to take up pre-ARV care compared to the control arm.
- Counseling was a major reason for participants in the intervention arm to return for care.
- More participants in the intervention arm disclosed their HIV status to their next of kin compared to the control arm.
Takeaway
If people who just found out they have HIV get better counseling and support, they are much more likely to go for the care they need.
Methodology
Participants were randomly assigned to receive either standard care or extended counseling with home visits, and their uptake of pre-ARV care was measured.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to staff working together and possible information sharing among participants.
Limitations
The study could not ensure complete separation between staff in different arms, and the quality of community support agents' counseling was not monitored.
Participant Demographics
Participants were newly screened HIV-positive adults, primarily rural subsistence farmers, with a mix of genders and educational backgrounds.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.4-2.1
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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