Abstract:
ackground: Antiretroviral therapy adherence is widely recognized as a critical health
promotion strategy for HIV positive individuals on therapy and it is the 'Achilles heel' of
successful outcome. A better understanding of factors that influence clients‟ adherence to ART
can improve to develop culturally appropriate and effective interventions which are in turn more
likely to lead to successful and sustainable programs for clients with HIV/AIDS.
Objectives: This study aims to explore clients‟ and health care professionals‟ views about
factors that facilitate and constrain optimal adherence to ART among HIV Clients.
Methods: In this qualitative study, grounded theory study design was used. The study was
conducted in Hawassa town, Southern Ethiopia. A theoretical sampling method was employed,
and the data were collected using non-participant observation and semi structured in-depth
interviews by the principal investigator from February to April 2014 GC.
Analysis: Simultaneous data collection and analysis was used and taped data and note were
transcribed into Amharic then translated into English by the PI. The grounded theory approach
was used for analyzing the data as a whole. The analysis began by using the constant comparison
approach. The coding process was preceded by open coding, axial and selective coding. All of
the codes used were inductive. To manage the overall coding process, Atlas.ti software was used.
To assure the quality of the research findings the researcher was consider the different set of
criteria to focusing on the credibility, dependability, transferability and Confirmability of the
study.
Result: Economic constraints, substance misuse, simply forgetting and being busy, fear of
stigma and discrimination, pill burden and medication side effects were major reason for client
being non-adherent. Disclosure of HIV status, using an adherence aid, prospects of living longer,
social support, experiencing better health and trusting health workers emerged as facilitators of
adherent to ART.
Conclusion: Understanding barriers and facilitators to ART adherence can help in the design of
an appropriate and targeted intervention. Policy-makers should develop appropriate social policy
to promote adherence among ART-prescribed clients whilst Healthcare providers should address
some of the practical and cultural issues around ART.
