Transportation costs impede sustained adherence and access to HAART in a clinic population in southwestern Uganda: a

David M Tuller1, David R Bangsberg, Jude Senkungu

  • 1School of Public Health, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA. davetuller@berkeley.edu

AIDS and Behavior
|March 14, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Transportation costs are a major barrier to HIV treatment adherence in sub-Saharan Africa. Addressing these costs is crucial for the success of antiretroviral programs and ensuring consistent patient care.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • HIV/AIDS Research
  • Health Economics

Background:

  • Antiretroviral (ARV) adherence is critical for managing HIV/AIDS.
  • Transportation costs represent a potential barrier to consistent healthcare access in sub-Saharan Africa.
  • Limited data exists on the impact of transportation costs on ARV adherence.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore structural barriers to ARV adherence and clinical care.
  • To understand the lived experiences of individuals with HIV/AIDS regarding transportation costs.

Main Methods:

  • Conducted 41 open-ended interviews with individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
  • Participants attended a clinic in Mbarara, Uganda.
  • Qualitative data analysis to identify key themes and barriers.

Main Results:

  • Nearly all participants reported significant stress and anxiety related to funding monthly clinic visits.
  • Lack of funds for transportation frequently led to missed ARV doses and medical appointments.
  • Participants faced competing financial demands, including food, housing, and school fees, against transportation costs.

Conclusions:

  • Transportation costs significantly compromise both ARV adherence and access to essential HIV care.
  • Interventions addressing transportation barriers are vital for the success of ARV programs in sub-Saharan Africa.
  • Financial support for transportation can improve health outcomes for people living with HIV/AIDS.

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