Implementation of therapeutic adherence in adult patients diagnosed with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVES

To systematically map and summarize the available knowledge on interventions that promote medication adherence among adult HIV patients and to describe the current state of the art regarding the impact of these interventions on clinical and psychosocial outcomes.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted and two researchers screened eligible studies independently. The Joanna Briggs Institute Quality Appraisal for Randomized Controlled Trials, Cross-Sectional Studies, and Quasi-Experimental Studies were adopted to evaluate the quality of selected studies and assess the Risk of Bias. Quantitative primary studies published between July 2015 and January 2024 were searched in the PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Cochrane databases. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024501273) and reported following the extension to the PRISMA statement for reporting literature searches in systematic reviews.

RESULTS

A total of 15 studies were selected, the majority of which were RCT studies. Three different kinds of interventions were described: the use of interactive electronic platforms and apps, the interaction with experts, and the interaction with peer support. Interventions that involve health professionals, experts, and peers showed the most statistically significant results, while new types of technology-based interventions need more improvements and further studies to consolidate their efficacy and application.

CONCLUSION

The adoption of a mixed-method approach, combining both expert-led, peer-based interventions and technological devices and apps, should be utilized to enhance adherence to antiretroviral treatments. This approach acknowledges the value of both professional guidance and peer support, catering to the diverse needs of people living with HIV.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: The adoption of a mixed-method approach, combining both expert-led, peer-based interventions and technological devices and apps, should be utilized to enhance adherence to ART treatments. This approach acknowledges the value of both professional guidance and peer support, catering to the diverse needs of people living with HIV.