This study establishes factors that contribute to poor ART adherence. It was done at
Jwaneng Mine Hospital MASA Clinic in Botswana.
A qualitative study was done using a structured questionnaire which included open and
close-ended questions. A total of 36 people (17 male and 19 female) who are HIV
positive and on ART participated in the study. Participants were aged 21 years and above.
Data was analysed using qualitative method. Frequencies were used for analysis of closeended
questions. Themes were identified in open-ended questions.
The responses given by the patients gave an insight on factors that may be contributing to
poor ART adherence among patients at Jwaneng Mine hospital MASA Clinic although
the study population was too small to make definite conclusions. In this study it was
revealed that the following factors may play a role in poor ART adherence: Transport
issues, Forgetfulness and long waiting hours. The main finding in this research was that
many factors thought to be contributing to poor adherence do not seem to have influence
on ART adherence but the fact of the matter is general ART adherence of patients at
Jwaneng Mine Hospital is low.
To enhance good adherence, it is of paramount importance that ART be rolled-out even
to the lowest level health facilities, more nurses should be trained on prescribing and
dispensing of ART, and patients should be given at least two months supply of ART.
Lastly, it would be of importance to conduct a similar type of study in the future on a
larger scale to verify the results of this study.