Table 3.
Approaches to optimize care and improve adherence in ALHIV.
Approach | Description |
---|---|
Comprehensive Support | Provide comprehensive support services tailored to the unique needs of adolescents living with HIV. Create a dedicated youth HIV clinic. |
Adherence Counseling | Offer individualized counseling sessions to address adherence challenges and provide strategies for medication adherence. |
Peer Support | Create support groups or peer networks for adolescents to connect, share experiences, and provide mutual encouragement. |
Youth-Friendly Services | Design healthcare facilities and services that are teen-friendly, non-judgmental, and accessible for adolescents, with youth-friendly hours (e.g., evening hours). |
Mental Health Support | Offer mental health services to address psychological and emotional well-being, including counseling and therapy. |
Medication Reminders | Implement strategies such as mobile apps, SMS alerts, or pillboxes to help adolescents remember to take medications. |
Treatment Simplification | Novel cART delivery strategies (e.g., long-acting oral or injectable cART), once daily/fixed-dose combinations, regimens to minimize side effects |
Family Involvement | Involve families/caregivers in the treatment process, providing education and support to ensure adherence at home. |
Adherence Tools and Resources | Provide educational materials, visual aids, and accessible resources to empower adolescents in managing their own care. |
Care Transition Planning | Support a smooth transition from pediatric to adult healthcare services, ensuring continuity of care during the transition. |
Continuous Education | Offer ongoing education and information on HIV, treatment advancements, and sexual health to empower informed decision-making. |
Sexual and Reproductive Health Education | Provide comprehensive sexuality education, including information on safe sex, contraception, preventing transmission and U=U education. |