Retaining human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients in medical care at regular intervals has been shown to be linked to positive health outcomes. This article examines the available literature and research on retention and engagement in care of HIV-infected patients. We identify the extent of the problem of keeping patients engaged in care, as well as analyze which groups of patients are likely to be lost to follow-up. A review of different ways to measure patient retention is considered, as well as some preliminary data that suggest successful ways to re-engage patients in care. The need to ensure that HIV-infected patients are retained in care is a pressing public health issue and one that affects multiple populations. Further research and exchange of information are needed to keep patients in continuous care and to ensure that all patients are provided with regular, high-quality care that achieves both desired patient and population health outcomes.

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Background Retention in HIV care has important implications. Few studies examining retention include comprehensive and heterogeneous populations, and few examine factors associated with returning to care after gaps in care. We identified reasons for gaps in care and factors associated with returning to care. Methods We extracted medical record and state-wide reporting data from 1865 patients with one HIV visit to a New York facility in 2008 and subsequent 6-month gap in care. Using mixed effect logistic regression, we examined sociodemographic, clinical, and facility characteristics associated with returning to care. Results Most patients were men (63.2%), black (51.4%), had Medicaid (53.9%). Many had CD4 counts >500 cells/mm3 (34.4%) and undetectable viral loads (45.0%). Most (55.9%) had unknown reasons for gaps in care; of those with known reasons, reasons varied considerably. After a gap, 54.6% returned to care. Patients who did (vs. did not) return to care were more likely to have stable housing, longer duration of HIV, high CD4 count, suppressed VL, antiretroviral medications, and had facilities attempt to contact them. Those who returned to care were less likely to be uninsured and have mental health problems or substance use histories. Conclusion Over half of our sample of patients in New York with one HIV visit and subsequent 6-month gap in care returned to care; no major reasons for gaps emerged. Nevertheless, our findings emphasize that stabilizing patients’ psychosocial factors and contacting patients after a gap in care are key strategies to retain HIV-positive patients in care in New York.