Barriers; Facilitators and Recommendations for the Early Infant Diagnosis and Treatment (EIDT) Cascade: A Qualitative Study in Malawi

ABSTRACT

Background. Identifying and testing all HIV-exposed infants (HEIs) by 2 months of age with rapid antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation for those infected is critical to survival. Yet in 2009 only 29% of HEIs in need of ART received treatment in Malawi.Objectives. To understand barriers; facilitators and recommendations for five key steps in the early infant diagnosis and treatment (EIDT) cascade (1) identification of HEIs; (2) infant testing; (3) sample processing and transport; (4) reporting results to mothers; (5) ART initiation for HEI.Methods. Semistructured interviews were conducted through convenience sampling with mothers of infants eligible for EIDT (n=47) and with healthcare workers (HCWs) providing EIDT (n=20) in five facilities; in April 2013. Results. (1) Reliance on the health passport to identify HEIs is both barrier; as women may not attend appointments with their passports; and facilitator; for documentation of HIV-exposure status. Use of trained health surveillance assistants in EIDT enhances cascade steps 1 and 2; but requires increased supervision. (2) Women struggle to accept their own HIV status; yet test results for an HEI is a motivator. Sensitisation through local leadership facilitates EIDT. (3) A reliable transport system is needed. (4) Maintaining appointments to report results to women motivates them. (5) Mothers were reluctant to give ART to young; apparently healthy infants. Conclusion. Both women and healthcare workers are motivated by test results for HEIs. The inclusion of community education can improve all steps in the EIDT cascade; including information that HEIs need ART