Barriers and facilitators to linkage to care and ART initiation in the setting of high ART coverage in Botswana.

ABSTRACT: We conducted a qualitative study using focus groups and in-depth interviews to explore barriers to and facilitators of linkage-to-care and antiretroviral treatment (ART) initiation in Botswana. Participants were selected from communities receiving interventions through the Ya Tsie Study. Fifteen healthcare providers and 49 HIV-positive individuals participated. HIV-positive participants identified barriers including stigma, discrimination and overcrowded clinics, and negative staff attitudes; personal factors, such as a lack of acceptance of one's HIV status, non-disclosure, and gender differences; along with lack of social/family support, and certain religious beliefs. Healthcare providers cited delayed test results, poverty, and transport difficulties as additional barriers. Major facili

SUBMITTER: Kebaabetswe P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6954979 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature