Table 1.
Themes Generated From FGDs and Examples of Corresponding Text Messages
| Themes | Text Message |
|---|---|
| Information | |
| Importance of taking ART consistently | Hi [name], For blood pressure to be controlled, take all of your medicine at the same time every day. How are you doing? Sister Carol |
| Unclear how to respond to a missed dose of ART | Hi [name], If you miss your blood pressure medicine, and you remember later, take that dose rather than missing out. Any questions? Sister Carol |
| Concern about potential adverse effects of ART | Dear [name], Your blood pressure medicines can have side effects, but these get better with time. Do you have any questions? Sister Carol |
| Misconceptions about the perceived detrimental effects of combining ART and alcohol | Hello [name], It’s OK to take your blood pressure medicine even if you take alcohol. But don’t forget your medicine! Any questions? Sister Carol |
| Use of traditional medicine and religion as alternatives to ART | Hi [name], Other medicines can affect your blood pressure medicine. Do you have any questions about your medicines? Are you OK? Sister Carol |
| Motivation | |
| Support from clinical providers | [Hi/As-salamu alaykum] [name], We care for you and welcome you to ask any questions regarding your health. Please SMS. How are you? [Be Blessed,] Sister Carol |
| Staying healthy for family and children | [Hi/As-salamu alaykum] [name], Your children are precious. Continue taking good care of yourself, so that you can take care of them. Are you well? Sister Carol |
| Positive impact of ART on ability to engage in everyday activities | Dear [name], Your body shall thank you for living life with purpose. You can do it! Take your blood pressure medicine. Are you well? Sister Carol |
| Faith can be a source of support while taking ART | “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you” (Isaiah 43:2) You are never alone. |
| Behavioral Skills | |
| Behavioral cues can be helpful as reminders to take ART | Hi [name], A reminder such as alarms, start of TV shows, or before bed can help you take your blood pressure medicine. Any questions? Sister Carol |
| Asking questions of providers is important to address concerns about ART | Dear [name], Don’t be shy, no question is too trivial. We are here to help. Please call or come by anytime! Have you been well? Sister Carol |
| Need to plan ahead for trips to ensure consistent adherence | [Dear/As-salamu alaykum] [name], If you are travelling, make sure you pack your blood pressure medicine! Have you been well? [Be Blessed,] Sister Carol. |
| Women sought additional sources of support | Dear [name], Our support groups can assist you with meeting others also with blood pressure. You are welcome to join. How are things? Sister Carol |
Note. ART = antiretroviral therapy; FGD = focus group discussion.