inPractice® - Adherence

Attaining and sustaining high-level adherence to ART are critical for achieving an optimal clinical response and maximizing the benefits of ART
Barriers to adherence to HIV treatment in the developing world include pill burden, adverse events, HIV-related stigma, suspicion of medical authorities, clinic wait times, comorbidities, costs of care, distances to clinic, interruptions in medication supply, and competing work and family responsibilities^{[Mukherjee 2006; Mills 2006; Chander 2006; WHO ART]}
Adherence can be improved by minimizing financial costs to patients,^{[Mukherjee 2006]} psychosocial interventions and community-based approaches to healthcare delivery,^{[Rich 2012; Ware 2009]} improving drug supply,^{[WHO ART]} use of simpler, better-tolerated regimens,^{[Simoni 2006; Amico 2006; Kent 2003]} directly observed therapy,^{[Hart 2010; Pearson 2006; Pearson 2007; Farmer 2001]} and reminders^{[Pop-Eleches 2011]}