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Wamuti B, Jamil MS, Siegfried N, Ford N, Baggaley R, Johnson CC, Cherutich P. Understanding effective post-test linkage strategies for HIV prevention and care: a scoping review. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26229. [PMID: 38604993 PMCID: PMC11009370 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26229] [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] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Following HIV testing services (HTS), the World Health Organization recommends prompt linkage to prevention and treatment. Scale-up of effective linkage strategies is essential to achieving the global 95-95-95 goals for maintaining low HIV incidence by 2030 and reducing HIV-related morbidity and mortality. Whereas linkage to care including same-day antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation for all people with HIV is now routinely implemented in testing programmes, linkage to HIV prevention interventions including behavioural or biomedical strategies, for HIV-negative individuals remains sub-optimal. This review aims to evaluate effective post-HTS linkage strategies for HIV overall, and highlight gaps specifically in linkage to prevention. METHODS Using the five-step Arksey and O'Malley framework, we conducted a scoping review searching existing published and grey literature. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science and EMBASE databases for English-language studies published between 1 January 2010 and 30 November 2023. Linkage interventions included as streamlined interventions-involving same-day HIV testing, ART initiation and point-of-care CD4 cell count/viral load, case management-involving linkage coordinators developing personalized HIV care and risk reduction plans, incentives-financial and non-financial, partner services-including contact tracing, virtual-like social media, quality improvement-like use of score cards, and peer-based interventions. Outcomes of interest were linkage to any form of HIV prevention and/or care including ART initiation. RESULTS Of 2358 articles screened, 66 research studies met the inclusion criteria. Only nine linkage to prevention studies were identified (n = 9/66, 14%)-involving pre-exposure prophylaxis, voluntary medical male circumcision, sexually transmitted infection and cervical cancer screening. Linkage to care studies (n = 57/66, 86%) focused on streamlined interventions in the general population and on case management among key populations. DISCUSSION Despite a wide range of HIV prevention interventions available, there was a dearth of literature on HIV prevention programmes and on the use of messaging on treatment as prevention strategy. Linkage to care studies were comparatively numerous except those evaluating virtual interventions, incentives and quality improvement. CONCLUSIONS The findings give insights into linkage strategies but more understanding of how to provide these effectively for maximum prevention impact is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Wamuti
- Department of Global Health and PopulationHarvard UniversityCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Muhammad S. Jamil
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programs, World Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
- Regional Office to the Eastern Mediterranean, World Health OrganizationCairoEgypt
| | | | - Nathan Ford
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programs, World Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Rachel Baggaley
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programs, World Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Cheryl Case Johnson
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programs, World Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Peter Cherutich
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs Programs, World Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
- Department of Preventive and Promotive HealthMinistry of HealthNairobiKenya
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Gbaja-Biamila TA, Obiezu-Umeh C, Nwaozuru U, Oladele D, Engelhart A, Shato T, Mason S, Carter V, Iwelunmor-Ezepue J. Interventions connecting young people living in Africa to healthcare; a systematic review using the RE-AIM framework. FRONTIERS IN HEALTH SERVICES 2024; 4:1140699. [PMID: 38356690 PMCID: PMC10864512 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2024.1140699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Africa's young people are among the least focused groups in healthcare linkage. The disproportionally high burden of youth-related health problems is a burden, especially in developing regions like Africa, which have a high population of young people. More information is needed about factors that impact linkages in healthcare and the sustainability of health interventions among young people in Africa. Methods A systematic literature search was performed from October 2020 to May 2022 in PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Global Health, and the Web of Science. Studies included in the review were conducted among young people aged 10-24 living in Africa, written in English, and published between 2011 and 2021. Results were reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Data was analyzed using narrative synthesis, synthesizing the details of the RE-AIM reporting component. Interventions were systematically compared using the Cochrane Collaboration risk-of-bias tool to evaluate the rigor of each intervention. Results A total of 2,383 potentially relevant citations were obtained after an initial database search. Retained in the final group were seventeen articles from electronic data searches; among these articles, 16 interventions were identified. Out of the seventeen studies, nine (53%) were randomized controlled trials, three (18%) were quasi-experimental designs, and five (29%) were observational studies. At the same time, the included interventions were reported on 20 (76.92%) of the 26 components of the RE-AIM dimensions. In eastern Africa, twelve (80%) interventions were conducted, and all the interventions addressed linkage to care for young people in preventing and treating HIV. The least reported RE-AIM dimensions were implementing and maintaining interventions connecting young people to care. Discussion Timely care remains critical to treating and preventing ailments. This review indicates that interventions created to link young people to care, especially HIV care, can help link them to health care and strengthen the programs. It is also clear that further research with more extended follow-up periods is needed to examine connections to care in all other aspects of health and to bridge the gap between research and practice in the care of young people in Africa. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO [CRD42022288227].
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Affiliation(s)
- Titilola Abike Gbaja-Biamila
- Clinical Sciences Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical research, Lagos, Nigeria
- College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Chisom Obiezu-Umeh
- College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Ucheoma Nwaozuru
- Department of Implementation Science, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
| | - David Oladele
- College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Alexis Engelhart
- College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Thembekile Shato
- Implementation Science Center for Cancer Control and Prevention Research Center, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Stacey Mason
- College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Victoria Carter
- School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Juliet Iwelunmor-Ezepue
- College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
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Knight JM, Ward MK, Fernandez S, Genberg BL, Beach MC, Ladner RA, Trepka MJ. Perceptions and Current Practices in Patient-Centered Care: A Qualitative Study of Ryan White HIV Providers in South Florida. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2024; 23:23259582241244684. [PMID: 38651291 PMCID: PMC11036924 DOI: 10.1177/23259582241244684] [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] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Patient-centered care (PCC) improves HIV adherence and retention, though lack of consensus on its conceptualization and understanding how it is interpreted has hindered implementation. Methods: We recruited 20 HIV providers at Ryan White Programs in FL for in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis identified core consistencies pertaining to: 1) provider perceptions, 2) current practices promoting PCC. Results: Provider perceptions of PCC emerged under four domains: 1) holistic, 2) individualized care, 3) respect for comfort and security, and 4) patient engagement and partnership. PCC practices occurred at multiple levels: 1) individual psychosocial and logistical support, 2) interpersonal support within patient-provider relationships through respectful communication and active engagement, and 3) institutional practices including feedback mechanisms, service integration, patient convenience, and diverse staffing. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the central tenets of PCC as respectful, holistic, individualized, and engaging care. We offer an HIV-adapted framework of PCC as a multilevel construct to guide future intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M. Knight
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Melissa K. Ward
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
- Research Center in Minority Institutions (RCMI), Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sofia Fernandez
- Research Center in Minority Institutions (RCMI), Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
- School of Social Work, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Becky L. Genberg
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Mary Jo Trepka
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
- Research Center in Minority Institutions (RCMI), Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
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Hiliza J, Ndizeimana E, William H, Lebba J, Musanhu C, Nsubuga P, Zablon Y. Accelerating HIV and AIDS services delivery in Kigoma region, Tanzania. Pan Afr Med J 2023; 45:9. [PMID: 37538364 PMCID: PMC10395105 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.supp.2023.45.1.39597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tanzania Commission for AIDS and UNAIDS reports 1.7 million Tanzanians are HIV-positive. The Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS set 95%, 95% 95% targets to be achieved by 2025. An assessment was done to understand the region's position, which found the underperformance of critical HIV and AIDS indicators. This prompted the region to accelerate HIV interventions by providing frontline healthcare providers with skills and knowledge, essential equipment, and other infrastructure, after which the assessment of the indicators was conducted to document the outcome of interventions. Methods we conducted a descriptive study in Kigoma region in June 2022 by comparing HIV and AIDS indicators performance in the pre-intervention and post interventions arms. High-volume CTCs were purposefully selected. We used a pre-tested checklist to assess new HIV-positive on antiretroviral (ARV), pregnant women living with HIV on ARV, and people living with HIV offered multi-month dispensing. We further assessed HIV viral load (HVL) specimen collection, HIV suppression status, and HVL test results turnaround time. We cleaned the information using an MS Excel sheet and tabulated results using STATA software version 13. Results we assessed 27 care and clinics. The proportion gain in the index client elicitation was 13%. Sexual partners mentioned during index client elicitation had an increase of 145 individuals. The yield among consented sexual partners gained by 14%. The ARV initiation among new HIV -positive and pregnant women living with HIV gained a proportion of 2%. Multi-month dispencing was found to have an 8% increase. The turnaround time for HVL test results decreased by 21 days, and the viral load suppression status increased by 4%. Conclusion the assessment demonstrated the accelerated HIV and AIDS service delivery due to implementing a comprehensive package of HIV and AIDS management. We recommend in-service capacity building regarding training, basic equipment, and infrastructure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jesca Lebba
- Kigoma Health Management Team, Kigoma, Tanzania
| | | | - Peter Nsubuga
- Global public health solutions, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Yoti Zablon
- World Health Organization, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Touré F, Etheredge GD, Brennan C, Parris K, Diallo MO, Ouffoue AF, Ekra A, Prao H, Assamoua NV, Gnongoue C, Kone F, Koffi C, Kamagaté F, Rivadeneira E, Carpenter D. Retention and Predictors of Attrition Among HIV-infected Children on Antiretroviral Therapy in Côte d'Ivoire Between 2012 and 2016. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2023; 42:299-304. [PMID: 36689665 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000003839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An estimated 21,000 children 0-14 years of age were living with HIV in Côte d'Ivoire in 2020, of whom only 49% have been diagnosed and are receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). Retention in HIV care and treatment is key to optimize clinical outcomes. We evaluated pediatric retention in select care and treatment centers (CTCs) in Côte d'Ivoire. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed medical records using 2-stage cluster sampling for children under 15 years initiated on ART between 2012 and 2016. Kaplan-Meier time-to-event analysis was done to estimate cumulative attrition rates per total person-years of observation. Cox proportional hazard regression was performed to identify factors associated with attrition. RESULTS A total of 1198 patient records from 33 CTCs were reviewed. Retention at 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 months after ART initiation was 91%, 84%, 74%, 72% and 70%, respectively. A total of 309 attrition events occurred over 3169 person-years of follow-up [266 children were lost to follow-up (LTFU), 29 transferred to another facility and 14 died]. LTFU determinants included attending a "public-private" CTC [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 6.05; 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.23-8.65], receiving care at a CTC without an on-site laboratory (aHR: 4.01; 95% CI: 1.70-9.46) or attending a CTC without an electronic medical record (EMR) system (aHR: 2.22; 95% CI: 1.59-3.12). CONCLUSIONS In Cote d'Ivoire, patients attending a CTC that is public-private, does not have on-site laboratory or EMR system were likely to be LTFU. Decentralization of laboratory services and scaling use of EMR systems could help to improve pediatric retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatoumata Touré
- From the Global Health and Population Business Unit, FHI 360, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Gina D Etheredge
- Global Health and Population Business Unit, FHI 360, Washington, DC
| | - Claire Brennan
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Global HIV and TB, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - KaeAnne Parris
- Food Security and Agriculture Division, RTI, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Mamadou Otto Diallo
- US President's Malaria Initiative (PMI), US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USAID, Liberia
| | | | - Alexandre Ekra
- Division of Global HIV and TB, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Herve Prao
- Division of Global HIV and TB, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - N'Da Viviane Assamoua
- Service Recherche, Programme National de Lutte contre le Sida (PNLS), Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | | | - Foungnigue Kone
- Service Recherche, Programme National de Lutte contre le Sida (PNLS), Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Christian Koffi
- Service Recherche, Programme National de Lutte contre le Sida (PNLS), Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Fathim Kamagaté
- Division of Global HIV and TB, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
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A Systematic Review of Linkage-to-Care and Antiretroviral Initiation Implementation Strategies in Low- and Middle-Income Countries Across Sub-Saharan Africa. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2123-2134. [PMID: 35088176 PMCID: PMC9422958 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03558-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Linkage to care (LTC) and initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) are key components in the longitudinal care cascade for people living with HIV. Many strategies to optimize these stages of HIV care have been implemented, though there is a paucity of analyses comparing the outcomes of these efforts in low- and middle-income countries. We conducted a systematic review of studies assessing interventions along all stages of the HIV care continuum published between 2008 and 2020. A comprehensive search strategy reviewed five electronic databases to capture studies assessing HIV testing, LTC, ART initiation, ART adherence, and viral suppression. Of the 388 articles that met the inclusion criteria, 78 described interventions for improving LTC/ART initiation. Efforts focused on empowering patients through integrative approaches generally yielded more substantive results compared to provider-initiated non-adaptive LTC interventions or cash incentives. Specifically, tailoring care and incorporating ART initiation into existing infrastructures, such as maternal clinics, had a high impact across settings. Moreover, strategies such as home-based HIV counseling and testing (HBHCT) appear to be most effective when implemented in tandem with other approaches including motivational counseling and point-of-care CD4 testing.
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7
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Duffy M, Madevu-Matson C, Posner JE, Zwick H, Sharer M, Powell AM. Systematic review: Development of a person-centered care framework within the context of HIV treatment settings in sub-Saharan Africa. Trop Med Int Health 2022; 27:479-493. [PMID: 35316549 PMCID: PMC9324124 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Person‐centred care (PCC) meets the needs of individuals by increasing convenience, providing supportive and culturally appropriate services to diverse populations, and engaging families, communities, and stakeholders in planning and provision of care. While the evidence demonstrates that PCC approaches can lead to clinical improvements across the HIV care continuum, it is not yet well defined in the context of HIV service delivery. Methods A systematic review was conducted to define PCC practices for HIV treatment services in health facilities in sub‐Saharan Africa. Data synthesis led to the development of a PCC framework including domain and sub‐domain development. The study team used the Effective Public Health Project Practice tool for quantitative studies to assess the quality of the included studies. Results Thirty‐one studies from 12 countries met the inclusion criteria, including 56,586 study participants (females 42%–100% and males 0%—58%), resulting in three major domains and 11 sub‐domains. These include staffing (sub‐domains of composition, availability, and competency); service delivery standards (sub‐domains of client feedback mechanisms; service efficiency and integration; convenience and access; and digital health worker support tools); and direct client support services (sub‐domains of psychosocial services, logistics support, client‐agency, and digital client support tools). Twenty‐five of the person‐centred interventions within these domains resulted in improvements in linkage to care, treatment retention, and/or viral suppression. Conclusions The PCC framework can help to provide a more consistent classification of HIV treatment interventions and will support improved assessment of these interventions to ensure that people receive personalised care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malia Duffy
- International Division, John Snow, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Public Health, Saint Ambrose University, Davenport, Iowa, USA
| | | | - Jessica E Posner
- International Division, John Snow, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hana Zwick
- International Division, John Snow, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Melissa Sharer
- International Division, John Snow, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Public Health, Saint Ambrose University, Davenport, Iowa, USA
| | - Antonia M Powell
- International Division, John Snow, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Magro P, Cerini C, da Gloria A, Tembe S, Castelli F, Tomasoni LR. The cascade of care of HIV after one year of follow-up in a cohort of HIV-positive adult patients in three health settings of Morrumbene in rural Mozambique. Trop Med Int Health 2021; 26:1503-1511. [PMID: 34455661 PMCID: PMC9293170 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13671] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the state of the retention in care of HIV patients in three health settings in Morrumbene, a rural district of Inhambane Province, Mozambique. We evaluated potential factors associated with early loss to follow-up (LTFU), retention in care and ART adherence during the first year of follow-up. MATERIAL AND METHODS Retrospective, cross-sectional, observational study. We collected data on patients diagnosed with HIV infection in 2017 in two permanent clinics and one mobile clinic. Demographic, clinical, immunological and therapeutic data were retrieved up to December 31st, 2018. Data on follow-up were collected at 6 and 12 months for medical visits and for ART adherence and analysed for factors associated with LTFU, retention in care and adherence to ART by Stata Version 14 and univariate and stepwise multiple unconditional logistic regression models. RESULTS In 2017, 960 patients were diagnosed with HIV infection. At 6-month follow-up, 49% attended the medical visit and 157 (25%) adhered to ART. After one year, 34% of patients were available for follow-up, and only 72 patients adhered to ART. In multivariate analysis, factors associated with early LTFU were male sex (p = 0.036) and immediate prescription of ART (p = 0.064). Older age (p < 0.001) and being followed in the mobile clinic (p = 0.001) favoured retention in care. Advanced WHO status (p = 0.005) and being pregnant or breastfeeding showed a negative correlation with adherence to treatment (p = 0.068). CONCLUSIONS Only one-third of patients were available for follow-up after one year, and only 13% adhered to ART. Young individuals, men and pregnant/breastfeeding women seem to be particularly at risk for LTFU and non-adherence to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Magro
- Division of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | | | - Stelio Tembe
- Direção Provincial de Saúde de Inhambane, Mocambique, Italy
| | - Francesco Castelli
- Division of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,NGO Medicus Mundi Italia ONLUS, Brescia, Italy.,Cattedra UNESCO "Training and Empowering Human Resources for Health Development in Resource-limited Countries", University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Division of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Lina Rachele Tomasoni
- NGO Medicus Mundi Italia ONLUS, Brescia, Italy.,Division of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Qiu M, Paina L, Rodríguez DC, Wilhelm JA, Eze-Ajoku E, Searle A, Zakumumpa H, Ssengooba F, MacKenzie C, Bennett S. Exploring perceived effects from loss of PEPFAR support for outreach in Kenya and Uganda. Global Health 2021; 17:80. [PMID: 34273988 PMCID: PMC8285775 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-021-00729-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In 2015, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief undertook policy shifts to increase efficiencies in its programming, including transitioning HIV/AIDS funding away from low burden areas. We examine the impact of these changes on HIV outreach in Kenya and Uganda. Methods Qualitative data collection was conducted as a part of a broader mixed-methods evaluation. Two rounds of facility-level case studies and national-level interviews were conducted in Kenya and Uganda, with health facility, sub-national and central Ministry of Health staff, HIV clients, and implementing partners. Results In both countries, the loss of outreach support affected community-based HIV/AIDS education, testing, peer support, and defaulter tracing. Discussion Loss of external support for outreach raises concerns for countries’ ability to reach the 90–90-90 UNAIDS target, as key linkages between vulnerable communities and health systems can be adversely affected. Conclusion Development partners should consider how to mitigate potential consequences of transition policies to prevent negative effects at the community level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Qiu
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Ligia Paina
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Daniela C Rodríguez
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jess A Wilhelm
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ezinne Eze-Ajoku
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Alexandra Searle
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Henry Zakumumpa
- Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Sara Bennett
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Interventions to Improve Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in Sub-Saharan Africa: An Updated Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18052477. [PMID: 33802322 PMCID: PMC7967610 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18052477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Optimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) remains the bedrock of effective therapy and management of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This systematic review examines the effect of interventions in improving ART adherence in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), which bears the largest global burden of HIV infection. In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, and based on our inclusion and exclusion criteria, PUBMED, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar databases were searched for published studies on ART adherence interventions from 2010 to 2019. Thirty-one eligible studies published between 2010 to 2019 were identified, the categories of interventions were structural, behavioral, biological, cognitive, and combination. Study characteristics varied across design, intervention type, intervention setting, country, and outcome measurements. Many of the studies were behavioral interventions conducted in hospitals with more studies being randomized controlled trial (RCT) interventions. Despite the study variations, twenty-four studies recorded improvements. Notwithstanding, more quality studies such as RCTs should be conducted, especially among key affected populations (KAPs) to control transmission of resistant strains of the virus. Reliable objective measures of adherence should replace the conventional subjective self-report. Furthermore, long-term interventions with longer duration should be considered when evaluating the effectiveness of interventions.
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11
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Jopling R, Nyamayaro P, Andersen LS, Kagee A, Haberer JE, Abas MA. A Cascade of Interventions to Promote Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in African Countries. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2021; 17:529-546. [PMID: 32776179 PMCID: PMC7497365 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-020-00511-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review We reviewed interventions to improve uptake and adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in African countries in the Treat All era. Recent Findings ART initiation can be improved by facilitated rapid receipt of first prescription, including community-based linkage and point-of-care strategies, integration of HIV care into antenatal care and peer support for adolescents. For people living with HIV (PLHIV) on ART, scheduled SMS reminders, ongoing intensive counselling for those with viral non-suppression and economic incentives for the most deprived show promise. Adherence clubs should be promoted, being no less effective than facility-based care for stable patients. Tracing those lost to follow-up should be targeted to those who can be seen face-to-face by a peer worker. Summary Investment is needed to promote linkage to initiating ART and for differentiated approaches to counselling for youth and for those with identified suboptimal adherence. More evidence from within Africa is needed on cost-effective strategies to identify and support PLHIV at an increased risk of non-adherence across the treatment cascade. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s11904-020-00511-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Jopling
- Health Service & Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Primrose Nyamayaro
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Mazowe Street, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Lena S Andersen
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Groote Schuur Hospital Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ashraf Kagee
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, 7602, South Africa
| | - Jessica E Haberer
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Melanie Amna Abas
- Health Service & Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
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Boeke CE, Joseph J, Atem C, Banda C, Coulibaly KD, Doi N, Gunda A, Kandulu J, Kiernan B, Kingwara L, Maokola W, Maparo T, Mbaye RN, Mtumbuka E, Mziray J, Ngugi C, Nkakulu J, Nzuobontane D, Okomo Assoumo MC, Peter T, Rioja MR, Sacks JA, Simbi R, Vojnov L, Khan SA. Evaluation of near point-of-care viral load implementation in public health facilities across seven countries in sub-Saharan Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25663. [PMID: 33455081 PMCID: PMC7811577 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In many low- and middle-income countries, HIV viral load (VL) testing occurs at centralized laboratories and time-to-result-delivery is lengthy, preventing timely monitoring of HIV treatment adherence. Near point-of-care (POC) devices, which are placed within health facility laboratories rather than clinics themselves (i.e. "true" POC), can offer VL in conjunction with centralized laboratories to expedite clinical decision making and improve outcomes, especially for patients at high risk of treatment failure. We assessed impacts of near-POC VL testing on result receipt and clinical action in public sector programmes in Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Malawi, Senegal, Tanzania and Zimbabwe. METHODS Routine health data were collected retrospectively after introducing near-POC VL testing at 57 public sector health facilities (2017 to 2019, country-dependent). Where possible, key indicators were compared to data from patients receiving centralized laboratory testing using hazard ratios and the Somers' D test. RESULTS Data were collected from 6795 tests conducted on near-POC and 17614 tests on centralized laboratory-based platforms. Thirty-one percent (2062/6694) of near-POC tests were conducted for high-risk populations: pregnant and breastfeeding women, children and those with suspected failure. Compared to conventional testing, near-POC improved the median time from sample collection to return of results to patient [six vs. sixty-eight days, effect size: -32.2%; 95% CI: -41.0% to -23.4%] and to clinical action for individuals with an elevated HIV VL [three vs. fourty-nine days, effect size: -35.4%; 95% CI: -46.0% to -24.8%]. Near-POC VL results were two times more likely to be returned to the patient within 90 days compared to centralized tests [50% (1781/3594) vs. 27% (4172/15271); aHR: 2.22, 95% CI: 2.05 to 2.39]. Thirty-seven percent (340/925) of patients with an elevated near-POC HIV VL result had documented clinical follow-up actions within 30 days compared to 7% (167/2276) for centralized testing. CONCLUSIONS Near-POC VL testing enabled rapid test result delivery for high-risk populations and led to significant improvements in the timeliness of patient result receipt compared to centralized testing. While there was some improvement in time-to-clinical action with near-POC VL testing, major gaps remained. Strengthening of systems supporting the utilization of results for patient management are needed to truly capitalize on the benefits of decentralized testing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Khady Diatou Coulibaly
- Division de la Lutte Contre le SIDA et les ISTMinistère de la Santé et de l’Action SocialeDakarSenegal
| | - Naoko Doi
- Clinton Health Access InitiativeBostonMAUSA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Joseph Mziray
- Clinton Health Access InitiativeDar Es SalaamTanzania
| | - Catherine Ngugi
- National AIDS and STI Control Programme (NASCOP)NairobiKenya
| | - Jeanine Nkakulu
- Clinton Health Access InitiativeKinshasaDemocratic Republic of Congo
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Raiva Simbi
- Ministry of Health and Child CareHarareZimbabwe
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The impact of PEPFAR transition on HIV service delivery at health facilities in Uganda. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0223426. [PMID: 31596884 PMCID: PMC6785126 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0223426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Since 2004, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has played a large role in Uganda’s HIV/AIDS response. To better target resources to high burden regions and facilities, PEPFAR planned to withdraw from 29% of previously-supported health facilities in Uganda between 2015 and 2017. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 226 PEPFAR-supported health facilities in Uganda in mid-2017. The survey gathered information on availability, perceived quality, and access to HIV services before and after transition. We compare responses for facilities transitioned to those maintained on PEPFAR, accounting for survey design. We also extracted data from DHIS2 for the period October 2013–December 2017 on the number of HIV tests and counseling (HTC), number of patients on antiretroviral therapy (Current on ART), and retention on first-line ART (Retention) at 12 months. Using mixed effect models, we compare trends in service volume around the transition period. Results There were 206 facilities that reported transition and 20 that reported maintenance on PEPFAR. Some facilities reporting transition may have been in a gap between implementing partners. The median transition date was September 2016, nine months prior to the survey. Transition facilities were more likely to discontinue HIV outreach following transition (51.6% vs. 1.4%, p<0.001) and to report declines in HIV care access (43.5% vs. 3.1%, p<0.001) and quality (35.6% vs. 0%, p<0.001). However, transition facilities did not differ in their trends in HIV service volume relative to maintenance facilities. Conclusions Transition from PEPFAR resulted in facilities reporting worsening patient access and service quality for HIV care, but there is insufficient evidence to suggest negative impacts on volume of HIV services. Facility respondents’ perceptions about access and quality may be overly pessimistic, or they may signal forthcoming impacts. Unrelated to transition, declining retention on ART in Uganda is a cause for concern.
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