Patients' and Care Providers' Reported Barriers and Suggestions for Improving HIV Viral Load Testing in Tanzania: A Qualitative Study in Dar Es Salaam

Overview

Journal J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care

Publisher Sage Publications

Specialty Infectious Diseases

Date 2024 Aug 20

PMID 39161244

Authors

Peter M Karoli

Elizabeth H Shayo

Grace A Shayo

Zenais A Kiwale

Claudia A Hawkins

Sylvia F Kaaya

Lisa R Hirschhorn

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

The study explores barriers and suggestions for improving viral load testing (VLT) uptake in Tanzania, revealing that only 58% of patients receive VLT annually, contrary to the Tanzanian National Guidelines toward the 95-95-95 UNAIDS targets. Twelve individual interviews and three patient-focus groups were conducted as part of a qualitative study conducted in six human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) clinics in Dar es Salaam to identify potential suggestions for access enhancement, as well as barriers to VLT uptake. Using King's theory of goal attainment, we found that missing appointments was the primary individual barrier to VLT uptake, along with limited knowledge among individuals living with HIV. Participants also face system-level barriers, such as a lack of integrated care and evening service availability. The study suggests that, despite challenges, there is potential for improvement in the uptake and quality of VLT services in Tanzanian public health facilities through a holistic approach.

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