A qualitative analysis of factors influencing the implementation of antiretroviral treatment adherence policy in Ghana: stakeholders perspective

Abstract

Background The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS launched the 90-90-90 initiative. Failure to meet the target reflects the difficulties in successfully implementing HIV treatment policy. There are research gaps in exploring personal and external factors influencing HIV treatment in Ghana. To fill this gap, we explored individual and environmental (interpersonal, community and structural) factors influencing stakeholders' HIV treatment policy implementation in Ghana. Methods Fifteen qualitative semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted among representatives in different management positions at hospitals, health directorates, the Ghana AIDS Commission, the National AIDS and STI control program, and the National Association of People Living with HIV. Results Using thematic analysis, the findings suggest that individual and environmental factors such as attitude towards policy, awareness of HIV treatment policy, training received on policy implementation, difficulties related to patient factors, alternate sources of HIV care, inefficient policy decision-making, monitoring and evaluation of HIV treatment policy, lack of HIV treatment policy implementation training, poor availability of logistics, policy and guidelines, infrastructure, organization of training, and staff availability may hinder successful HIV treatment policy implementation. Conclusion Several individual and environmental (interpersonal, community and structural) factors seem to influence HIV treatment policy implementation. To ensure successful policy implementation stakeholders need to receive training on new policies, availability of sufficient supplies of material resources, inclusive decision-making, receive supportive monitoring of policy implementation, and oversight.

Factors related ART adherence and quality of life in PLHIV: Mediating role of positive self-care management and brain gym

“…In a study conducted in India in 2011, it was elucidated that treatment adherence in PLHIV might be considerably influenced by many social, individual, and family environmental factors [22]. Studies conducted in Ghana have also indicated that treatment adherence is influenced by both individual and environmental factors [23]. The findings of previous studies have identified several clinical variables that have an impact on ART adherence [24].…”