RTI uses cookies to offer you the best experience online. By clicking “accept” on this website, you opt in and you agree to the use of cookies. If you would like to know more about how RTI uses cookies and how to manage them please view our Privacy Policy here. You can “opt out” or change your mind by visiting: http://optout.aboutads.info/. Click “accept” to agree.
Acceptability of implants for HIV treatment in young children
Perspectives of health care providers in Johannesburg, South Africa
Scorgie, F., Hawley, I., Fairlie, L., Pahad, S., Mathebula, F., Mohuba, R., London, S.-J., Cottrell, M. L., Johnson, L. M., & Montgomery, E. T. (2022). Acceptability of implants for HIV treatment in young children: Perspectives of health care providers in Johannesburg, South Africa. AIDS Patient Care and STDs, 36(10), 389-395. https://doi.org/10.1089/apc.2022.0087
In South Africa, less than half of children receiving antiretroviral therapy are virally suppressed. Adherence challenges include poor palatability of drugs and high pill burden. Subcutaneous implants offer a long-acting alternative to daily oral dosing regimens, which may improve outcomes in children living with HIV (CLWH). Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with 24 health care providers (HCPs) in Johannesburg, South Africa. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Data were coded and analyzed using NVivo 12 software and a Grounded Theory approach. Most HCPs welcomed an implant option for CLWH. Perceived benefits included fewer clinic visits, improved adherence, and “normalization” of the lives of CLWH. Concerns included painful insertion and removal, the potential for stigmatization, and caregivers' likely rejection of biodegradable implants. A single, small, non-transparent rod with some flexibility was preferred by most participants. HCP training and early outreach to mitigate potential misinformation about implants and caregivers' fears about biodegradable implants were emphasized. Further engagement with caregivers of CLWH is required and ongoing.