1
|
Nyakato P, Boulle A, Wood R, Eley B, Rabie H, Egger M, Yiannoutsos CT, Davies MA, Cornell M. Self-transfers, Hospital Admissions and Mortality Among Children and Adolescents Lost to Follow-up From Antiretroviral Therapy Programs in the Western Cape, South Africa Between 2004 and 2019: Linkage to Provincial Records. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2024; 43:430-436. [PMID: 38451913 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000004281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric programs face a high rate of loss to follow-up (LTFU) among children and adolescents living with HIV (CAHIV). We assessed true outcomes and predictors of these among CAHIV who were LTFU using linkage to the Western Cape Provincial Health Data Centre at Western Cape sites of the International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS-Southern Africa collaboration. METHODS We examined factors associated with self-transfer, hospital admission and mortality using competing risks regression in a retrospective cohort of CAHIV initiating antiretroviral therapy <15 years old between 2004 and 2019 and deemed LTFU (no recorded visit at the original facility for ≥180 days from the last visit date before database closure and not known to have officially transferred out or deceased). RESULTS Of the 1720 CAHIV deemed LTFU, 802 (46.6%) had self-transferred and were receiving care elsewhere within the Western Cape, 463 (26.9%) had been hospitalized and 45 (2.6%) CAHIV had died. The overall rates of self-transfer, hospitalization, mortality and LTFU were 9.4 [95% confidence interval (CI): 8.8-10.1], 5.4 (95% CI: 5.0-6.0), 0.5 (95% CI: 0.4-0.7) and 4.8 (95% CI: 4.4-5.3) per 100 person-years respectively. Increasing duration on antiretroviral therapy before LTFU was associated with self-transfers while male sex, older age at last visit (≥10 years vs. younger) were associated with hospital admission and immune suppression at last visit was associated with 5 times higher mortality. CONCLUSIONS Nearly half of CAHIV classified as LTFU had self-transferred to another health facility, a quarter had been hospitalized and a small proportion had died.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patience Nyakato
- From the Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine
| | - Andrew Boulle
- From the Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town
- Department of Health, Khayelitsha ART Programme
- Department of Health, Western Cape Government: Health
| | - Robin Wood
- Gugulethu HIV Programme and Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town
| | - Brian Eley
- Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital and Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Helena Rabie
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Tygerberg Academic Hospital, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Matthias Egger
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Constantin T Yiannoutsos
- Department of Biostatistics, R.M Fairbanks, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Mary-Ann Davies
- From the Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town
- Department of Health, Western Cape Government: Health
| | - Morna Cornell
- From the Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Graves E, Brooks HL, De Schacht C, Emílio A, Matino A, Aboobacar A, Audet CM. Healthcare Providers' Perspectives on a Novel Couple-Based HIV Treatment Intervention: A Qualitative Assessment of the Facilitators, Barriers, and Proposed Improvements to Implementation in Zambézia Province, Mozambique. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1370-1383. [PMID: 38151664 PMCID: PMC11197054 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04224-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Mozambique has one of the world's highest HIV/AIDS burdens. Despite significant investment in HIV care and treatment, pregnant and lactating women's retention in care remains suboptimal. One reason for poor maternal retention is lack of male partner support. We tested an interventional couple-based HIV care and treatment, including joint clinical appointments and couple-based educational and support sessions provided by a health counselor and peer educators, respectively. Healthcare providers delivering care for seroconcordant individuals were interviewed regarding their perspectives on facilitators and barriers to the couple-based intervention implementation. Analysis of interview responses was done using MAXQDA. Results pertaining to providers' perspectives on implementation and intervention characteristics were organized, interpreted, and contextualized using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR 2.0), while providers' suggestions for improvements were coded and organized apart from CFIR. Providers felt the intervention was largely compatible with the local culture, and offered a significant advantage over standard individual-based care by facilitating patient follow-up and reducing wait times by prioritizing couples for services. They also believed it facilitated HIV treatment access through the provision of couple-based counseling that encouraged supportive behaviors towards retention. However, providers reported insufficient privacy to deliver couple-based care at some health facilities and concerns that women in difficult relationships may struggle to meaningfully participate. They suggested providing sessions in alternate clinic settings and offering a limited number of women-only visits. The facilitators and barriers described here contribute to informing the design and implementation of future couple-based interventions to improve HIV care for seroconcordant expectant couples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin Graves
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2525 West End Ave, Suite 750, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA.
| | - Hannah L Brooks
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2525 West End Ave, Suite 750, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA
| | | | | | | | - Arifo Aboobacar
- Provincial Health Directorate of Zambézia, Quelimane, Mozambique
| | - Carolyn M Audet
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2525 West End Ave, Suite 750, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Karugaba G, Simpson J, Mathuba B, Phoi O, Regonamanye T, Mathuba K, Dintwa E, Nkomo B, Ramaabya D, Pule MR, Matshaba M. The barriers and facilitators of HIV-exposed infant testing as perceived by HIV-positive mothers in Botswana: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273777. [PMID: 36044527 PMCID: PMC9432723 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite high rates of HIV testing and enrolment of HIV-positive pregnant women on antiretroviral therapy in Botswana, coverage for HIV-exposed infant (HEI) testing remains suboptimal. Many factors can contribute to suboptimal HEI testing rates, but they have seldom been thoroughly investigated in Botswana. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the experiences and perspectives of HIV-positive mothers on the barriers and facilitators of HEI testing to inform interventions to promote HEI testing in Botswana. Methods We conducted focus group discussions (FGDs) with HIV-positive mothers who gave birth in 2016 at the three largest public hospitals in Botswana. FGDs were held in Maun, Francistown, and Gaborone from September 2019 to March 2020. The maximum variation sampling method was used to select the participants using information that was abstracted from birth registers and other medical records at the study sites. Mothers were asked to describe their HEI testing experiences, what made it easy or difficult for them to return the HEI for testing, and what needs to be done to improve HEI testing in Botswana. A thematic approach was used to analyse the data. Results Fifteen FGDs with 142 mothers (aged 21–52 years) were held. Participants identified several facilitators to HEI testing, including a mother with adequate knowledge of PMTCT, intensive tracking of HEI by healthcare workers (HCWs), positive attitudes of HCWs toward clients, and social support from significant others. Staff shortages at health care facilities, frequent stock-outs of HIV test kits, fear of stigma, fear of positive test results for the child, and transportation challenges were identified as key barriers to HEI testing. Increasing staffing at healthcare facilities, having adequate supplies of HIV test kits, enhanced HEI tracking, easing access to HEI testing services in rural areas, and providing quality PMTCT education were among the proposed interventions to promote HEI testing. Conclusion Optimizing HEI testing in Botswana will require multi-level interventions at the policy, health system, community, interpersonal, and individual levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grace Karugaba
- Botswana-Baylor Children’s Clinical Centre of Excellence, Gaborone, Botswana
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Bathusi Mathuba
- Botswana-Baylor Children’s Clinical Centre of Excellence, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Onkemetse Phoi
- Botswana-Baylor Children’s Clinical Centre of Excellence, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Thato Regonamanye
- Botswana-Baylor Children’s Clinical Centre of Excellence, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Keofentse Mathuba
- Botswana-Baylor Children’s Clinical Centre of Excellence, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | | | | | | | - Mogomotsi Matshaba
- Botswana-Baylor Children’s Clinical Centre of Excellence, Gaborone, Botswana
- Baylor College of Medicine, Paediatric Retrovirology, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wiginton JM, Mathur S, Gottert A, Pilgrim N, Pulerwitz J. Hearing From Men Living With HIV: Experiences With HIV Testing, Treatment, and Viral Load Suppression in Four High-Prevalence Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Front Public Health 2022; 10:861431. [PMID: 35651865 PMCID: PMC9149263 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.861431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Engaging men in HIV services remains a challenge across sub-Saharan Africa. There is a critical need to better understand facilitators of men's successful engagement with HIV services and assess if there are similarities across contexts. We conducted in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 92 men living with HIV (MLHIV) across Malawi, Uganda, South Africa, and Eswatini, most of whom had been diagnosed with HIV within the last 5 years. We coded interviews for themes using a constant-comparative approach. We contextualized our findings within a socioecological framework. HIV testing was primarily motivated by illness (individual level), though illness was sometimes accompanied by prompting and support from healthcare providers and/or intimate partners. Once diagnosed, nearly all participants reported immediate linkage to care, initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART), and subsequent ART adherence. ART initiation and adherence were facilitated by men's sense of agency and ownership over their health (individual level), social support from intimate partners, friends, and family (interpersonal/network level), supportive-directive counseling from healthcare providers (institutional/health systems level), and male-friendly services, i.e., rapid, respectful, private (institutional/health systems level). Health literacy regarding viral suppression (individual level), strengthened by patient-provider communication (institutional/health systems level), was highest in Uganda, where most men could discuss viral load testing experiences, report their viral load status (most reported suppressed), and demonstrate an understanding of treatment as prevention. Elsewhere, few participants understood what viral load suppression was and even fewer knew their viral load status. Our findings reveal socioecological-level facilitators of men's progress across the HIV-care continuum. Programs may want to leverage facilitators of ART initiation and adherence that span socioecological levels—e.g., healthcare ownership and agency, social support, supportive-directive counseling—and apply them to each end of the continuum to encourage early HIV testing/diagnosis and improve health literacy to help men understand and achieve viral load suppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Mark Wiginton
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | - Ann Gottert
- Population Council, Washington, DC, United States
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang J, Mugo C, Omondi VO, Njuguna IN, Maleche-Obimbo E, Inwani I, Hughes JP, Slyker JA, John-Stewart G, Wamalwa D, Wagner AD. Home-based HIV Testing for Children: A Useful Complement for Caregivers with More Children, Who are Male, and with an HIV Negative Partner. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3045-3055. [PMID: 35306611 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03643-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Expanding index and family-based testing (HBT) is a priority for identifying children living with HIV. Our study characterizes predictors that drive testing location choice for children of parents living with HIV. Kenyan adults living with HIV were offered a choice of HBT or clinic-based testing (CBT) for any of their children (0-12 years) of unknown HIV status. Multilevel generalized linear models were used to identify correlates of choosing HBT or CBT for children and testing all versus some children within a family, including caregiver demographics, HIV history, social support, cost, and child demographics and HIV prevention history. Among 244 caregivers living with HIV and their children of unknown HIV status, most (72%) caregivers tested children using CBT. In multivariate analysis, female caregivers [aRR 0.52 (95% CI 0.34-0.80)] were less likely to choose HBT than male caregivers. Caregivers with more children requiring testing [aRR 1.23 (95% CI 1.05-1.44)] were more likely to choose HBT than those with fewer children requiring testing. In subgroup univariate analysis, female caregivers with a known HIV negative spouse were significantly more likely to choose HBT over CBT than those with a known HIV positive spouse [RR 2.57 (95% CI 1.28-5.14), p = 0.008], no association was found for male caregivers. Child demographics and clinical history was not associated with study outcomes. Caregiver-specific factors were more influential than child-specific factors in caregiver choice of pediatric HIV testing location. Home-based testing may be preferable to families with higher child care needs and may encourage pediatric HIV testing if offered as an alternative to clinic testing.
Collapse
|
6
|
Lusaka M, Crowley T. Administering human immunodeficiency virus post-exposure prophylaxis: challenges experienced by mothers in Lusaka, Zambia. South Afr J HIV Med 2021; 22:1183. [PMID: 33604065 PMCID: PMC7876968 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v22i1.1183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mothers living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) should be guided to practise safe childbirth, provide appropriate infant feeding, return infants for repeat HIV testing and administer for the required period, protective antiretroviral (ARV) medication (post-exposure prophylaxis [PEP]) to their infants. Although several studies have explored challenges related to the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT), no studies were found that focused specifically on the mother and PEP. Objectives To explore and understand the challenges experienced by mothers in Lusaka, Zambia, whilst providing their children with PEP. Methods This study utilised a qualitative methodology and a descriptive design. Fifteen semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with mothers who gave PEP to their infants. Study evaluation made use of Creswell’s six steps of data analysis. Results Women experienced numerous challenges. Challenges of an individual and social nature included ‘negative’ emotions, misconceptions and a lack of understanding of PEP. Post-exposure prophylaxis was sometimes burdensome and partner involvement often limited. Cultural, religious practices and stigma deterred some women from continuing PEP. Healthcare challenges included time-consuming appointments and protracted waiting periods. Clinic organisation was often inefficient and complicated by stock-outs of essential medication such as nevirapine. Healthcare workers were at times stigmatising towards mothers living with HIV and their infants. The counselling support provided by the healthcare workers was felt to be inadequate in the face of the burden of PEP. Conclusion Post-exposure prophylaxis as part of the PMTCT programme is key to eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Postnatal support for women administering PEP to their children can be enhanced through counselling that is person- and family-centred is culturally sensitive and offers differentiated services that include PEP, integrated mother-and-child healthcare and access to support groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mildred Lusaka
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Talitha Crowley
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lain MG, Chicumbe S, de Araujo AR, Karajeanes E, Couto A, Giaquinto C, Vaz P. Correlates of loss to follow-up and missed diagnosis among HIV-exposed infants throughout the breastfeeding period in southern Mozambique. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237993. [PMID: 32822388 PMCID: PMC7444585 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Complete follow-up of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-exposed infants (HEI) is crucial for a successful prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission. This study analyzed the HEI follow-up and factors associated with loss to follow-up (LTFU) in southern Mozambique. Methods This retrospective cohort study used the data of HEI enrolled between June 2017 and June 2018, followed-up for 18 months. The outcomes were the proportion of infants with completed follow-up and a definitive diagnosis, and the presence of clinical events. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was used to calculate the cumulative probability of LTFU and of clinical events. Factors associated with LTFU and clinical events were analyzed using Cox regression to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) and adjusted HR (AHR), with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a significance cutoff of p<0.05. Results 1413 infants were enrolled (49% males) at a median age of 32 days (IQR 31–41); the median follow-up time was 12 months (IQR 8.2–14.2); 1129 (80%) completed follow-up and had a definitive diagnosis, 58 (4%) were HIV-positive, 225 (16%) were LTFU; 266 (19%) presented a clinical event. Factors associated with LTFU were: age >2 months at entry (AHR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.12–2.23), non-exclusive breastfeeding (AHR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.01–2.06), poor cotrimoxazole adherence (AHR, 3.42; 95% CI, 1.59–7.35), and clinical events (AHR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.34–0.77). Factors associated with clinical events were: malnutrition (AHR, 10.06; 95% CI, 5.92–17.09), non-exclusive breastfeeding (AHR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.34–2.93), no nevirapine prophylaxis (AHR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.18–2.36), and poor cotrimoxazole adherence (AHR, 2.62; 95% CI, 1.10–6.22). Conclusion The high rate of HEI LTFU, associated with delayed linkage to postnatal care, poor prophylaxis adherence, non-exclusive breastfeeding, indicates the need to design a differentiated service delivery model that is tailored to the mothers’ and infants’ specific needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Grazia Lain
- Fundação Ariel Glaser contra o SIDA Pediátrico, Maputo, Mozambique
- * E-mail:
| | - Sergio Chicumbe
- Health System Program, Instituto Nacional de Saúde, Maputo, Mozambique
| | | | | | - Aleny Couto
- HIV Program, Ministry of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Carlo Giaquinto
- Department for Woman and Child Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Paula Vaz
- Fundação Ariel Glaser contra o SIDA Pediátrico, Maputo, Mozambique
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Fuente-Soro L, López-Varela E, Augusto O, Bernardo EL, Sacoor C, Nhacolo A, Ruiz-Castillo P, Alfredo C, Karajeanes E, Vaz P, Naniche D. Loss to follow-up and opportunities for reengagement in HIV care in rural Mozambique: A prospective cohort study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e20236. [PMID: 32443358 PMCID: PMC7254184 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000020236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients lost to follow-up (LTFU) over the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cascade have poor clinical outcomes and contribute to onward HIV transmission. We assessed true care outcomes and factors associated with successful reengagement in patients LTFU in southern Mozambique.Newly diagnosed HIV-positive adults were consecutively recruited in the Manhiça District. Patients LTFU within 12 months after HIV diagnosis were visited at home from June 2015 to July 2016 and interviewed for ascertainment of outcomes and reasons for LTFU. Factors associated with reengagement in care within 90 days after the home visit were analyzed by Cox proportional hazards model.Among 1122 newly HIV-diagnosed adults, 691 (61.6%) were identified as LTFU. Of those, 557 (80.6%) were approached at their homes and 321 (57.6%) found at home. Over 50% had died or migrated, 10% had been misclassified as LTFU, and 252 (78.5%) were interviewed. Following the visit, 79 (31.3%) reengaged in care. Having registered in care and a shorter time between LTFU and visit were associated with reengagement in multivariate analyses: adjusted hazards ratio of 3.54 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.81-6.92; P < .001] and 0.93 (95% CI: 0.87-1.00; P = .045), respectively. The most frequently reported barriers were the lack of trust in the HIV-diagnosis, the perception of being in good health, and fear of being badly treated by health personnel and differed by type of LTFU.Estimates of LTFU in rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa are likely to be overestimated in the absence of active tracing strategies. Home visits are resource-intensive but useful strategies for reengagement for at least one-third of LTFU patients when applied in the context of differentiated care for those LTFU individuals who had already enrolled in HIV care at some point.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fuente-Soro
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Hospital Clínic –00 Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisa López-Varela
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Hospital Clínic –00 Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Orvalho Augusto
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Edson Luis Bernardo
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- Manhiça District Health Services
| | | | - Ariel Nhacolo
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Paula Ruiz-Castillo
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Hospital Clínic –00 Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Paula Vaz
- Fundação Ariel Glaser Contra o SIDA Pediátrico, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Denise Naniche
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Hospital Clínic –00 Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Fuente-Soro L, Iniesta C, López-Varela E, Cuna M, Guilaze R, Maixenchs M, Bernardo EL, Augusto O, Gonzalez R, Couto A, Munguambe K, Naniche D. Tipping the balance towards long-term retention in the HIV care cascade: A mixed methods study in southern Mozambique. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0222028. [PMID: 31560689 PMCID: PMC6764678 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0222028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The implementation of quality HIV control programs is crucial for the achievement of the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets and to motivate people living with HIV (PLWHIV) to link and remain in HIV-care. The aim of this mixed method cross-sectional study was to estimate the linkage and long-term retention in care of PLWHIV and to identify factors potentially interfering along the HIV-care continuum in southern Mozambique. Methods A home-based semi-structured interview was conducted in 2015 to explore barriers and facilitators to the HIV-care cascade among individuals that had been newly HIV-diagnosed in community testing campaigns in 2010 or 2012. Linkage and long-term retention were estimated retrospectively through client self-reports and clinical records. Cohen's Kappa coefficient was calculated to measure the agreement between participant self-reported and documented cascade outcomes. Results Among the 112 interviewed participants, 24 (21.4%) did not disclose their HIV-positive serostatus to the interviewer. While 84 (75.0%) self-reported having enrolled in care, only 69 (61.6%) reported still being in-care 3–5 years after diagnosis of which 17.4% reported having disengaged and re-engaged. An important factor affecting optimal continuum in HIV-care was the impact of the fear-based authoritarian relationship between the health system and the patient that could act as both driver and barrier. Conclusion Special attention should be given to quantify and understand repeated cycles of patient disengagement and re-engagement in HIV-care. Strategies to improve the relationship between the health system and patients are still needed in order to optimally engage PLWHIV for long-term periods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fuente-Soro
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | - Carlos Iniesta
- Centro Nacional de Epidemiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa López-Varela
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mauro Cuna
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Rui Guilaze
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Maria Maixenchs
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Edson Luis Bernardo
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- Direcção Distrital em Saúde, Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Orvalho Augusto
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Raquel Gonzalez
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aleny Couto
- National STI-HIV/AIDS Program, Ministry of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Khatia Munguambe
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Denise Naniche
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ngandu NK, Maduna V, Sherman G, Noveve N, Chirinda W, Ramokolo V, Lombard C, Goga AE. Infrastructural and human-resource factors associated with return of infant HIV test results to caregivers: secondary analysis of a nationally representative situational assessment, South Africa, 2010. BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:785. [PMID: 31526381 PMCID: PMC6745768 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-019-4337-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In June 2015, South Africa introduced early infant HIV diagnosis (EID) at birth and ten weeks postpartum. Guidelines recommended return of birth results within a week and ten weeks postpartum results within four weeks. Task shifting was also suggested to increase service coverage. This study aimed to understand factors affecting return of EID results to caregivers. Methods Secondary analysis of data gathered from 571 public-sector primary health care facilities (PHCs) during a nationally representative situational assessment, was conducted. The assessment was performed one to three months prior to facility involvement in the 2010 evaluation of the South African programme to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission (SAPMTCTE). Self-reported infrastructural and human resource EID-related data were collected from managers and designated staff using a structured questionnaire. The main outcome variable was ‘EID turn-around-time (TAT) to caregiver’ (caregiver TAT), measured as reported number of weeks from infant blood draw to caregiver receipt of results. This was dichotomized as either short (≤3 weeks) or delayed (> 3 weeks) caregiver TAT. Logit-based risk difference analysis was used to assess factors associated with short caregiver TAT. Analysis included TAT to facility (facility TAT), defined as reported number of weeks from infant blood draw to facility receipt of results. Results Overall, 26.3% of the 571 PHCs reported short caregiver TAT. In adjusted analyses, short caregiver TAT was less achieved when facility TAT was > 7 days (versus ≤7 days) (adjusted risk difference (aRD): − 0.2 (95% confidence interval − 0.3-(− 0.1)), p = 0.006 for 8–14 days and − 0.3 (− 0.5-(− 0.1)), p = 0.006 for > 14 days), and in facilities with staff nurses (compared to those without) (aRD: − 9.4 (− 16.6-(− 2.2), p = 0.011). Conclusion Although short caregiver TAT for EID was only reported in approximately 26% of facilities, these facilities demonstrate that achieving EID TAT of ≤3 weeks is possible, making timely ART initiation within 3 weeks of diagnosis feasible within the public health sector. Our adjusted analyses underpin the need for quick return of results to facilities. They also raise questions around staff mentoring: we hypothesise that facilities with staff nurses were likely to have fewer professional nurses, and thus inadequate senior support. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12879-019-4337-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nobubelo Kwanele Ngandu
- Health Systems Research Unit, South, African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, SA, South Africa.
| | - Vincent Maduna
- Health Systems Research Unit, South, African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, SA, South Africa
| | - Gayle Sherman
- Centre for HIV and STI, National Institute of Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, SA, South Africa.,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, SA, South Africa
| | - Nobuntu Noveve
- Health Systems Research Unit, South, African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, SA, South Africa
| | - Witness Chirinda
- Health Systems Research Unit, South, African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, SA, South Africa
| | - Vundli Ramokolo
- Health Systems Research Unit, South, African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, SA, South Africa
| | - Carl Lombard
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, SA, South Africa.,School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, SA, South Africa
| | - Ameena Ebrahim Goga
- Health Systems Research Unit, South, African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, SA, South Africa.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, SA, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gong E, Dula J, Alberto C, de Albuquerque A, Steenland M, Fernandes Q, Cuco RM, Sequeira S, Chicumbe S, Gudo ES, McConnell M. Client experiences with antenatal care waiting times in southern Mozambique. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:538. [PMID: 31370854 PMCID: PMC6670125 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4369-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antenatal care (ANC) provides a range of critical health services during pregnancy that can improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes. In Mozambique, only half of women receive four or more ANC visits, which are provided for free at public health centers by maternal and child health (MCH) nurses. Waiting time has been shown to contribute to negative client experiences, which may be a driver of low maternity care utilization. A recent pilot study of a program to schedule ANC visits demonstrated that scheduling care reduces waiting time and results in higher rates of complete ANC. This study aims to explore client experiences with waiting time for ANC in standard practice and care and after the introduction of appointment scheduling. METHODS This study uses a series of qualitative interviews to unpack client experiences with ANC waiting time with and without scheduled care, in order to better understand the impact of waiting time on client experiences. Thirty-eight interviews were collected in May to June 2017 at three pilot study clinics in southern Mozambique, with a focus on two paired intervention and comparison facilities sharing similar facility characteristics. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis methods using NVivo software. RESULTS Clients described strong motivations to seek ANC, pointing to the need to address convenience of care, and highlighted direct and indirect costs of seeking care that were exacerbated by long waiting times. Direct costs include time and transport costs of going to the clinic, while indirect costs include being unable to fulfill household and work obligations. Other barriers to complete ANC utilization of four or more visits include transport costs, negative provider experiences, and delayed ANC initiation, which limit the potential number of clinic contacts. CONCLUSIONS Findings demonstrate that the scheduling intervention improves the client experience of seeking care by allowing women to both seek ANC and fulfill other productive obligations. Innovation in healthcare delivery should consider adapting models that minimize waiting times.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Estelle Gong
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Janeth Dula
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde, Ministério da Saúde, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Carla Alberto
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde, Ministério da Saúde, Maputo, Mozambique
| | | | - Maria Steenland
- Population Studies and Training Center, Brown University, Providence, RI USA
| | - Quinhas Fernandes
- National Directorate of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Rosa Marlene Cuco
- National Directorate of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Sandra Sequeira
- Department of International Development, London School of Economics, London, UK
| | - Sérgio Chicumbe
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde, Ministério da Saúde, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Eduardo Samo Gudo
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde, Ministério da Saúde, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Margaret McConnell
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Brief Report: Disclosure, Consent, Opportunity Costs, and Inaccurate Risk Assessment Deter Pediatric HIV Testing: A Mixed-Methods Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 77:393-399. [PMID: 29280769 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prompt child HIV testing and treatment is critical; however, children are often not diagnosed until symptomatic. Understanding factors that influence pediatric HIV testing can inform strategies to increase testing. METHODS A mixed-methods study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. Three focus group discussions with health care workers (HCWs) and 18 in-depth interviews with HIV-infected adults with children of unknown status were analyzed using thematic analysis. A structured questionnaire was administered to 116 HIV-infected caregivers of children of unknown status to triangulate qualitative findings. RESULTS Analysis revealed 3 key periods of the pediatric HIV testing process: decision to test, test visit, and posttest. Key issues included: decision to test: inaccurate HIV risk perception for children, challenges with paternal consent, lack of caregiver HIV status disclosure to partners or older children; test experience: poor understanding of child consent/assent and disclosure guidelines, perceived costs of testing and care, school schedules, HCW discomfort with pediatric HIV testing; and posttest: pessimism regarding HIV-infected children's prognosis, caregiver concerns about their own emotional health if their child is positive, and challenges communicating about HIV with children. Concerns about all 3 periods influenced child testing decisions. In addition, 3 challenges were unique to pediatric HIV: inaccurate HIV risk perception for children; disclosure, consent, and permission; and costs and scheduling. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric HIV testing barriers are distinct from adult barriers. Uptake of pediatric HIV testing may be enhanced by interventions to address misconceptions, disclosure services, psychosocial support addressing concerns unique to pediatric testing, child-focused HCW training, and alternative clinic hours.
Collapse
|
13
|
Larsen A, Cheyip M, Tesfay A, Vranken P, Fomundam H, Wutoh A, Aynalem G. Timing and Predictors of Initiation on Antiretroviral Therapy Among Newly-Diagnosed HIV-Infected Persons in South Africa. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:375-385. [PMID: 30008050 PMCID: PMC6331268 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-2222-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Despite a decade of advancing HIV/AIDS treatment policy in South Africa, 20% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) eligible for antiretroviral treatment (ART) remain untreated. To inform universal test and treat (UTT) implementation in South Africa, this analysis describes the rate, timeliness and determinants of ART initiation among newly diagnosed PLHIV. This analysis used routine data from 35 purposively selected primary clinics in three high HIV-burden districts of South Africa from June 1, 2014 to March 31, 2015. Kaplan-Meier survival curves estimated the rate of ART initiation. We identified predictors of ART initiation rate and timely initiation (within 14 days of eligibility determination) using Cox proportional hazards and multivariable logistic regression models in Stata 14.1. Based on national guidelines, 6826 patients were eligible for ART initiation. Under half of men and non-pregnant women were initiated on ART within 14 days (men: 39.7.0%, 95% CI 37.7-41.9; women: 39.9%, 95% CI 38.1-41.7). Pregnant women initiated at a faster rate (within 14 days: 87.6%, 86.1-89.0). ART initiation and timeliness varied significantly by district, facility location, and age, with little to no variation by World Health Organization stage, or CD4 count. Men and non-pregnant women newly diagnosed with HIV who are eligible for ART in South Africa show suboptimal timeliness of ART initiation. If treatment initiation performance is not improved, UTT implementation will be challenging among men and non-pregnant women. UTT programming should be tailored to district and location categories to address contextual differences influencing treatment initiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Larsen
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Mireille Cheyip
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Abraham Tesfay
- Howard University Global Initiative, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Peter Vranken
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Henry Fomundam
- Howard University Global Initiative, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Anthony Wutoh
- Howard University Global Initiative, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Getahun Aynalem
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Desmonde S, Tanser F, Vreeman R, Takassi E, Edmonds A, Lumbiganon P, Pinto J, Malateste K, McGowan C, Kariminia A, Yotebieng M, Dicko F, Yiannoutsos C, Mubiana-Mbewe M, Wools-Kaloustian K, Davies MA, Leroy V. Access to antiretroviral therapy in HIV-infected children aged 0-19 years in the International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) Global Cohort Consortium, 2004-2015: A prospective cohort study. PLoS Med 2018; 15:e1002565. [PMID: 29727458 PMCID: PMC5935422 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1002565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a global priority. However, the attrition across the continuum of care for HIV-infected children between their HIV diagnosis and ART initiation is not well known. We analyzed the time from enrollment into HIV care to ART initiation in HIV-infected children within the International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) Global Cohort Consortium. METHODS AND FINDINGS We included 135,479 HIV-1-infected children, aged 0-19 years and ART-naïve at enrollment, between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2015, in IeDEA cohorts from Central Africa (3 countries; n = 4,948), East Africa (3 countries; n = 22,827), West Africa (7 countries; n = 7,372), Southern Africa (6 countries; n = 93,799), Asia-Pacific (6 countries; n = 4,045), and Latin America (7 countries; n = 2,488). Follow-up in these cohorts is typically every 3-6 months. We described time to ART initiation and missed opportunities (death or loss to follow-up [LTFU]: last clinical visit >6 months) since baseline (the date of HIV diagnosis or, if unavailable, date of enrollment). Cumulative incidence functions (CIFs) for and determinants of ART initiation were computed, with death and LTFU as competing risks. Among the 135,479 children included, 99,404 (73.4%) initiated ART, 1.9% died, 1.4% were transferred out, and 20.4% were lost to follow-up before ART initiation. The 24-month CIF for ART initiation was 68.2% (95% CI: 67.9%-68.4%); it was lower in sub-Saharan Africa-ranging from 49.8% (95% CI: 48.4%-51.2%) in Central Africa to 72.5% (95% CI: 71.5%-73.5%) in West Africa-compared to Latin America (71.0%, 95% CI: 69.1%-72.7%) and the Asia-Pacific (78.3%, 95% CI: 76.9%-79.6%). Adolescents aged 15-19 years and infants <1 year had the lowest cumulative incidence of ART initiation compared to other ages: 62.2% (95% CI: 61.6%-62.8%) and 66.4% (95% CI: 65.7%-67.0%), respectively. Overall, 49.1% were ART-eligible per local guidelines at baseline, of whom 80.6% initiated ART. The following children had lower cumulative incidence of ART initiation: female children (p < 0.01); those aged <1 year, 2-4 years, 5-9 years, and 15-19 years (versus those aged 10-14 years, p < 0.01); those who became eligible during follow-up (versus eligible at enrollment, p < 0.01); and those receiving care in low-income or lower-middle-income countries (p < 0.01). The main limitations of our study include left truncation and survivor bias, caused by deaths of children prior to enrollment, and use of enrollment date as a proxy for missing data on date of HIV diagnosis, which could have led to underestimation of the time between HIV diagnosis and ART initiation. CONCLUSIONS In this study, 68% of HIV-infected children initiated ART by 24 months. However, there was a substantial risk of LTFU before ART initiation, which may also represent undocumented mortality. In 2015, many obstacles to ART initiation remained, with substantial inequities. More effective and targeted interventions to improve access are needed to reach the target of treating 90% of HIV-infected children with ART.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Franck Tanser
- Africa Centre for Health and Population Studies, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Somkhele, South Africa
| | - Rachel Vreeman
- School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | | | - Andrew Edmonds
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | | | - Jorge Pinto
- School of Medicine, Universide Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Karen Malateste
- Inserm U1219, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- Bordeaux School of Public Health, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Catherine McGowan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Azar Kariminia
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Marcel Yotebieng
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | | | - Constantin Yiannoutsos
- Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | | | - Kara Wools-Kaloustian
- School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Mary-Ann Davies
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Valériane Leroy
- Inserm U1027, Toulouse III University, Toulouse, France
- * E-mail:
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Goga AE, Singh Y, Singh M, Noveve N, Magasana V, Ramraj T, Abdullah F, Coovadia AH, Bhardwaj S, Sherman GG. Enhancing HIV Treatment Access and Outcomes Amongst HIV Infected Children and Adolescents in Resource Limited Settings. Matern Child Health J 2018; 21:1-8. [PMID: 27514391 PMCID: PMC5226975 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-016-2074-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Increasing access to HIV-related care and treatment for children aged 0–18 years in resource-limited settings is an urgent global priority. In 2011–2012 the percentage increase in children accessing antiretroviral therapy was approximately half that of adults (11 vs. 21 %). We propose a model for increasing access to, and retention in, paediatric HIV care and treatment in resource-limited settings. Methods Following a rapid appraisal of recent literature seven main challenges in paediatric HIV-related care and treatment were identified: (1) lack of regular, integrated, ongoing HIV-related diagnosis; (2) weak facility-based systems for tracking and retention in care; (3) interrupted availability of dried blood spot cards (expiration/stock outs); (4) poor quality control of rapid HIV testing; (5) supply-related gaps at health facility-laboratory interface; (6) poor uptake of HIV testing, possibly relating to a fatalistic belief about HIV infection; (7) community-associated reasons e.g. non-disclosure and weak systems for social support, resulting in poor retention in care. Results To increase sustained access to paediatric HIV-related care and treatment, regular updating of Policies, review of inter-sectoral Plans (at facility and community levels) and evaluation of Programme implementation and impact (at national, subnational, facility and community levels) are non-negotiable critical elements. Additionally we recommend the intensified implementation of seven main interventions: (1) update or refresher messaging for health care staff and simple messaging for key staff at early childhood development centres and schools; (2) contact tracing, disclosure and retention monitoring; (3) paying particular attention to infant dried blood spot (DBS) stock control; (4) regular quality assurance of rapid HIV testing procedures; (5) workshops/meetings/dialogues between health facilities and laboratories to resolve transport-related gaps and to facilitate return of results to facilities; (6) community leader and health worker advocacy at creches, schools, religious centres to increase uptake of HIV testing and dispel fatalistic beliefs about HIV; (7) use of mobile communication technology (m-health) and peer/community supporters to maintain contact with patients. Discussion and Conclusion We propose that this package of facility, community and family-orientated interventions are needed to change the trajectory of the paediatric HIV epidemic and its associated patterns of morbidity and mortality, thus achieving the double dividend of improving HIV-free survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ameena Ebrahim Goga
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zyl Drive, Parrowvallei, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa.
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Pretoria, Private bag X20, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa.
| | - Yagespari Singh
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zyl Drive, Parrowvallei, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
| | - Michelle Singh
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zyl Drive, Parrowvallei, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
| | - Nobuntu Noveve
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zyl Drive, Parrowvallei, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
| | - Vuyolwethu Magasana
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zyl Drive, Parrowvallei, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
| | - Trisha Ramraj
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zyl Drive, Parrowvallei, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
| | | | - Ashraf H Coovadia
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Gayle G Sherman
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- National Institute of Communicable Diseases, National Health Laboratory Services, Modderfontein Road, Sandringham, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Larsen A, Cheyip M, Aynalem G, Dinh T, Jackson D, Ngandu N, Chirinda W, Mogashoa M, Kindra G, Lombard C, Goga A. Uptake and predictors of early postnatal follow-up care amongst mother-baby pairs in South Africa: Results from three population-based surveys, 2010-2013. J Glob Health 2017; 7:021001. [PMID: 29302327 PMCID: PMC5735783 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.07.021001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achieving World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for postnatal care (PNC) within the first few weeks of life is vital to eliminating early mother-to-child transmission of HIV (MTCT) and improving infant health. Almost half of the annual global deaths among children under five occur during the first six weeks of life. This study aims to identify uptake of three PNC visits within the first six weeks of life as recommended by WHO among South African mother-infant pairs, and factors associated with uptake. METHODS We analyzed data from three facility-based, nationally representative surveys (2010, 2011/12 and 2012/13) primarily designed to determine the effectiveness of the South African program to prevent MTCT. This analysis describes the proportion of infants achieving the WHO recommendation of at least 3 PNC visits. Interviews from 27 699 HIV-negative and HIV-positive mothers of infants aged 4-8 weeks receiving their six week immunization were included in analysis. Data were analyzed using STATA 13.0 and weighted for sample ascertainment and South African live births. We fitted a multivariable logistic regression model to estimate factors associated with early PNC uptake. RESULTS Over half (59.6%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 59.0-60.3) of mother-infant pairs received the recommended three PNC visits during the first 6 weeks; uptake was 63.1% (95% CI = 61.9-64.3) amongst HIV exposed infants and 58.1% (95% CI = 57.3-58.9) amongst HIV unexposed infants. Uptake of early PNC improved significantly with each survey, but varied significantly by province. Multivariable analysis of the pooled data, controlling for survey year, demonstrated that number of antenatal visits (4+ vs <4 Adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.04-1.23), timing of initial antenatal visits (≤12 weeks vs >12 weeks, aOR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.04-1.23), place of delivery (clinic vs hospital aOR = 1.5, 1.3-1.6), and infant HIV exposure (exposed vs unexposed aOR = 1.2, 95% CI = 1.1-1.2) were the key factors associated with receiving recommended PNC visits. CONCLUSIONS Approximately 40% of neonates did not receive three or more postnatal care visits in the first 6 weeks of life from 2010-2013. To improve uptake of early PNC, early antenatal booking, more frequent antenatal care attendance, and attention to HIV negative women is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Larsen
- Division of Global HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis, Center for Global Health, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mireille Cheyip
- Division of Global HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis, Center for Global Health, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Getahun Aynalem
- Division of Global HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis, Center for Global Health, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Thu–ha Dinh
- Division of Global HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis, Center for Global Health, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Debra Jackson
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
- United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), New York, New York, USA
| | - Nobubelo Ngandu
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council (HSRU, SAMRC), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Witness Chirinda
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council (HSRU, SAMRC), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mary Mogashoa
- Division of Global HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis, Center for Global Health, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Gupreet Kindra
- Division of Global HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis, Center for Global Health, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Carl Lombard
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council (HSRU, SAMRC), Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Ameena Goga
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council (HSRU, SAMRC), Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tynan A, Vallely L, Kupul M, Neo R, Fiya V, Worth H, Kariwiga G, Mola GDL, Kaldor J, Kelly-Hanku A. Programmes for the prevention of parent-to-child transmission of HIV in Papua New Guinea: Health system challenges and opportunities. Int J Health Plann Manage 2017; 33:e367-e377. [PMID: 28960552 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.2450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prevention of parent-to-child transmission (PPTCT) of HIV is a highly complex package of interventions, which spans services in both maternal and child health programmes. In Papua New Guinea (PNG), a commitment to ensure that all pregnant women and their partners have access to the full range of PPTCT interventions exists; however, efforts to increase access and utilisation of PPTCT remain far from optimal. The aim of this paper is to examine health care worker (HCW) perception of health system factors impacting on the performance of PPTCT programmes. METHOD Sixteen interviews were undertaken with HCWs involved in the PPTCT programme. Application of the WHO 6 building blocks of a health system was applied, and further thematic analysis was conducted on the data with assistance from the analysis software NVivo. RESULTS Broken equipment, problems with access to medication and supplies, and poorly supported workforce were reported as barriers for implementing a successful PPTCT programme. The absence of central coordination of this complex, multistaged programme was also recognised as a key issue. CONCLUSION The study findings highlight an important need for investment in appropriately trained and supported HCWs and integration of services at each stage of the PPTCT programme. Lessons from the PPTCT experience in PNG may inform policy discussions and considerations in other similar contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Tynan
- The School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Lisa Vallely
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Unit, Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea.,Kirby Institute, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Martha Kupul
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Unit, Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea
| | - Ruthy Neo
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Unit, Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea
| | - Voletta Fiya
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Unit, Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea
| | - Heather Worth
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Grace Kariwiga
- Alotau Provincial Hospital, Milne Bay Provincial Health Authority, Alotau, Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea
| | - Glen D L Mola
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
| | - John Kaldor
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Angela Kelly-Hanku
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Unit, Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea.,Kirby Institute, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Madiba S, Mokgatle M. Fear of stigma, beliefs, and knowledge about HIV are barriers to early access to HIV testing and disclosure for perinatally infected children and adolescents in rural communities in South Africa. S Afr Fam Pract (2004) 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/20786190.2017.1329489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sphiwe Madiba
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mathildah Mokgatle
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scale-up of HIV care and antiretroviral therapy (ART) services for children has expanded access, but significant gaps and challenges remain. We examined lost to follow-up (LTF) and mortality in a large cohort of children enrolled in HIV care in Mozambique. METHODS Routinely collected medical data on children 0-14 years enrolled in care 2009-2013 at ICAP-supported health facilities in 5 provinces of Mozambique were used. Children not receiving ART (pre-ART) were considered LTF if they did not a have a visit within 12 months of the end of data collection; for those receiving ART, LTF was no visit within 6 months. Competing risk and Kaplan-Meier estimators were used, respectively, to estimate pre-ART and on ART LTF and mortality. RESULTS A total of 13,695 children enrolled in HIV care at 64 health facilities (48.6%, <2 years), and 7733 (56.5%) initiated ART during follow-up. Cumulative incidence of pre-ART LTF was 32.9% [95% confidence interval (CI): 32.1-33.7] and 34.4% (95% CI: 33.6-35.2) by 12 and 24 months, respectively, and was highest in children <5 years (12-month LTF in children 2-4 years, 34.2%, 95% CI: 32.6-35.9). Pre-ART mortality at 12 months was 3.3% (95% CI: 3.0-3.6) and was highest in children <2 years (4.1%, 95% CI: 3.6-4.6). On ART, LTF was 28.6% (95% CI: 27.6-29.7) and 37.6 (95% CI: 36.4-38.8) at 12 and 24 months, and 12 months mortality after ART was 8.0% (95% CI: 7.3-8.7). CONCLUSIONS High rates of LTF were observed in this large cohort of HIV-infected children accessing care in Mozambique both before and after ART initiation highlighting the urgent need for interventions to improve retention in routine care settings.
Collapse
|
20
|
Machine EM, Gillespie SL, Homedes N, Selwyn BJ, Ross MW, Anabwani G, Schutze G, Kline MW. Lost to follow-up: failure to engage children in care in the first three months of diagnosis. AIDS Care 2016; 28:1402-10. [PMID: 27160542 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2016.1179714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Loss to follow-up (LTFU) is a critical factor in determining clinical outcomes in HIV treatment programs. Identifying modifiable factors of LTFU is fundamental for designing effective patient-retention interventions. We analyzed factors contributing to children LTFU from a treatment program to identify those that can be modified. A case-control study involving 313 children was used to compare the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of children LTFU (cases) with those remaining in care (controls) at a large pediatric HIV care setting in Botswana. We traced children through caregiver contacts and those we found, we conducted structured interviews with patients' caregivers. Children <5 years were nearly twice as likely as older children to be LTFU (57·8% versus 30·9%, p <0 .01). Approximately half (47·6%, n = 51) of LTFU patients failed to further engage in care after just one clinic visit, as compared to less than 1% (n = 2) in the control group (p < 0.01). Children LTFU were more likely than controls to have advanced disease, greater immunosuppression, and not to be receiving antiretroviral therapy. Among interviewed patient caregivers, psychosocial factors (e.g., stigma, religious beliefs, child rebellion, disclosure of HIV status) were characteristics of patients LTFU, but not of controls. Socioeconomic factors (e.g., lack of transportation, school-related activities, forgetting appointments) were cited predominantly by the controls. Pediatric patients and their caregivers need to be targeted and engaged at their initial clinic visit, with special attention to children <5 years. Possible interventions include providing psychosocial support for issues that deter patients from engaging with The Clinic. Collaboration with community-based organizations focused on reducing stigma may be useful in addressing these complex issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Susan L Gillespie
- a Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine , Houston , TX , USA
| | - Nuria Homedes
- b The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UT Health) School of Public Health , Houston , TX , USA
| | - Beatrice J Selwyn
- b The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UT Health) School of Public Health , Houston , TX , USA
| | - Michael W Ross
- c Department of Family Medicine and Community Health , University of Minnesota Medical School , Minneapolis , MN , USA
| | - Gabriel Anabwani
- d Botswana-Baylor Children's Clinical Centre of Excellence , Gaborone , Botswana
| | - Gordon Schutze
- a Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine , Houston , TX , USA
| | - Mark W Kline
- a Department of Pediatrics , Baylor College of Medicine , Houston , TX , USA
| |
Collapse
|