Adoption of Community Adolescent Treatment Support for HIV Care Retention in Greater Accra Region, Ghana

Abstract

Despite the introduction of efficacious antiretroviral therapy, HIV and AIDS continue to pose a threat to global public health. Community adolescent treatment support programs have shown promising signs of improving adherence retention to care which in turn improves HIV-related health outcomes in this population. However, little is known about the adoption of this program among adolescents in Ghana. This study sought to assess the adoption of community adolescent treatment support among adolescents living with HIV in Tema General Hospital and LEKMA Hospital in the Greater Accra Region, Ghana. A qualitative phenomenological design was carried out at the Tema General Hospital and LEKMA Hospital. Adolescents living with HIV aged 18 to 24 years old who were actively participating in the Community Adolescents Treatment Support (CATS) services were recruited in this study. In addition, healthcare workers involved in the CATS strategy since its inception were recruited. A total of sixteen (16) key informant and in-depth interviews were conducted. The data was transcribed verbatim and imported to NVivo 14.0 software for thematic analysis. It was found that CATS serves as a crucial support system, strengthening peer connections and providing flexible medication pickup. Improved medication adherence, better retention in care, and positive viral load outcomes were evident among participants. However, communication issues and participants consistency pose challenges. Support group meetings were highly valued by participants. Mobile health services were widely accepted for maintaining connectivity and support. Home visit services faced reluctance due to privacy concerns, and the wider community was perceived as unwelcoming. While challenges persist, including recruitment difficulties and financial support, there is a strong commitment to improving the program's effectiveness and scalability. Communication strategies, increasing funding support, and intensifying community education and sensitization efforts should be strengthened to reduce stigma and foster broader community inclusivity.