Abstract
Patient’s adherence is crucial to get the best out of antiretroviral therapy (ART). This study explores in-depth
the barriers to and facilitators of ART adherence among Nepalese patients and service providers prescribing
ART. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with 34 participants. Interviews were audiotaped,
transcribed, and translated into English before being analyzed thematically. ART-prescribed patients
described a range of barriers for failing to adhere to ART. Financial difficulties, access to healthcare
services, frequent transport blockades, religious/ritual obstacles, stigma and discrimination, and sideeffects
were the most-frequently discussed barriers whereas trustworthy health workers, perceived health
benefits, and family support were the most-reported facilitators. Understanding barriers and facilitators can
help in the design of an appropriate and targeted intervention. Healthcare providers should address some
of the practical and cultural issues around ART whilst policy-makers should develop appropriate social
policy to promote adherence among ART-prescribed patients.
the barriers to and facilitators of ART adherence among Nepalese patients and service providers prescribing
ART. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with 34 participants. Interviews were audiotaped,
transcribed, and translated into English before being analyzed thematically. ART-prescribed patients
described a range of barriers for failing to adhere to ART. Financial difficulties, access to healthcare
services, frequent transport blockades, religious/ritual obstacles, stigma and discrimination, and sideeffects
were the most-frequently discussed barriers whereas trustworthy health workers, perceived health
benefits, and family support were the most-reported facilitators. Understanding barriers and facilitators can
help in the design of an appropriate and targeted intervention. Healthcare providers should address some
of the practical and cultural issues around ART whilst policy-makers should develop appropriate social
policy to promote adherence among ART-prescribed patients.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 1-10 |
| Number of pages | 10 |
| Journal | The Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition |
| Volume | 30 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| Early online date | 25 Nov 2012 |
| Publication status | Published - Dec 2012 |
Keywords
- Adherence
- Antiretroviral drugs
- Barriers
- Facilitators
- HIV/AIDS
- South Asia
