Barriers to PrEP Uptake and Care Among MSM with HIV in the Netherlands
Author Information
Author(s): Koole Jeffrey C. D., Bedert Maarten R. D., de la Court Feline, Bais Irene, Wit Ferdinand, Stalenhoef Janneke, Mudrikova Tania, Pogany Katalin, van Benthem Birgit, Prins Maria, Davidovich Udi, van der Valk Marc
Primary Institution: Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
What are the barriers and missed opportunities in PrEP uptake, care, and use among MSM with HIV and previous PrEP experience?
Conclusion
PrEP uptake delays significantly contributed to HIV infections among MSM with prior PrEP experience, highlighting the need for timely access to PrEP.
Supporting Evidence
- Most interviewees reported significant delays in PrEP uptake due to limited capacity and stigma.
- Many participants experienced barriers when trying to access PrEP from general practitioners.
- Missed opportunities for counseling on adherence and safer sex alternatives were reported.
- Some interviewees had informal PrEP experiences that lacked proper care and monitoring.
Takeaway
Some men who have sex with men in the Netherlands had trouble getting a medicine that helps prevent HIV, which led to them getting HIV instead.
Methodology
Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with MSM diagnosed with HIV and previous PrEP experience.
Potential Biases
Social desirability bias may have influenced responses due to the sensitive nature of discussing HIV and sexual behavior.
Limitations
The study may have selection bias due to the sensitive nature of the topics discussed, and findings are limited to the time and setting of data collection.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged 21-67, with 64% born in the Netherlands, 45% having a college degree or higher, and 82% being employed or students.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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