A mixed methods study of perceived social support based on the medical outcomes study social support survey in adults with repeated challenges with HIV medication adherence

Abstract

Numerous research studies in the HIV literature have documented social support as a key factor influencing adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART). This is one of only a few studies to examine perceived social support among adults living with HIV who have had repeated challenges with medication adherence. A secondary analysis of quantitative and qualitative data from two intervention studies was conducted using a mixed methods design. Two overarching themes were associated with the lack of social support: extreme isolation and constant turmoil. Subthemes, included loneliness, structural vulnerability, and emotional distress. Overall social support was low in this vulnerable group, especially when compared to the general population and to adults living with other chronic health conditions. Strong correlations existed between all social support subscales of the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS). The strongest positive correlation was found between affectionate support and positive social interaction (r = .870, p = less than .0001). These data suggest that participants who frequently self-reported a lack of persons to spend time with socially often lacked positive, supportive relationships in their lives. No significant variation was found between self-reported overall social support or subscale scores based on age or health variables. Convergent qualitative data excerpts corresponded with low quantitative social support scores in every dimension, confirming that adults living with HIV who repeatedly struggle with taking life-long HIV medications lack social support in many areas of their lives.

Gaps and solutions of HIV testing, care, and treatment in Iran during 2018-2019

“…Studies have shown certain barriers to global access to HIV testing, treatment, and care services as well as prevention of further transmission [15]. For instance, a study by Mercier et al revealed that adults living with HIV who constantly struggle with taking life-long HIV medications, often lack social support in different aspects of their lives [16]. There are also some obstacles in receiving early and appropriate ART, such as long waiting times, transport costs, fears of privacy breaches, inappropriate staff attitudes, fragmented platforms of service delivery [17][18][19][20][21], high cost of medical care and drugs, lack of appropriate access to women's health services, difficulties with follow-up meetings due to long distances, family responsibilities, and other priorities in life.…”