Mobile Phone-based intervention to promote un-interrupted HIV treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic
Afr. health sci. (Online)
; 22(2 Special Issue: Makerere@100): 85-92, 2022. figures, tables
Article
in En
| AIM
| ID: biblio-1400775
Responsible library:
CG1.1
ABSTRACT
Introduction:
Keeping HIV-infected adults away from the health care system during the COVID-19 travel restrictions, presents a challenge to HIV treatment adherence.Methods:
This study focused on the initial two phases where Phase 1 designed a Makerere College of Health Sciences (MakCHS) Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD)-based application; and Phase 2 piloted patient enrolment onto the application and determined the feasibility of remote follow-up of patients receiving long-term antiretroviral therapy (ART).Results:
A off/online user application, MakCHS Health app, was developed. Overall, 112 patients [(66(59%) female] receiving ART at Mulago ISS clinic, Kampala, were enrolled onto the MakCHS Health app. Up to 89 (80%) utilized the app to access medical help. Patients' medical queries included needs for drug refills, missed taking HIV medication, medical illnesses, access to COVID-19 vaccination and other personal needs that required clinicians' attention.Conclusion:
Piloting a MakCHS Health application for patient follow-up was feasible and well-received by HIV treatment providers and patients receiving ART. We recommend scale up of the application to enroll all patients receiving long-term treatment for HIV/AIDS, and subsequently expand to. other HIV treatment programs in similar settingsKey words
Full text:
1
Index:
AIM
Main subject:
HIV Infections
/
Patient Compliance
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Continuity of Patient Care
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Drug Therapy
/
COVID-19
Language:
En
Journal:
Afr. health sci. (Online)
Year:
2022
Type:
Article