A qualitative assessment of barriers and facilitators to antiretroviral therapy adherence among human immunodeficiency virus patients in Jordan.

Objective: To explore barriers and facilitators to antiretroviral therapy adherence among human immunodeficiency virus patients in Jordan from their perspectives. Methods: Qualitative one-to-one interviews with HIV patients took place in a private support center that works on the inclusion of HIV patients in the society. The inclusion criteria for the study included patients who were currently receiving treatment for HIV for more than one year, has a Jordanian citizenship or residency, were at least 18 years old, and were physically and mentally competent to conduct a reliable, spoken interview. Results: The participants reported several barriers that negatively influenced their medication experience and adherence. These barriers included the following subthemes: accessibility, adverse reactions, financial burden, lack of support, medication manageability, psychological factors, and stigma. These facilitators included the following subthemes: benefits and QOL, fear, and support and additional services. Conclusion: In summary, this is the first study in Jordan regarding HIV patients discuss the barriers and facilitator for ART adherence from their perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]