Published in:
01-11-2019 | Human Immunodeficiency Virus | Original Paper
VITAL Start: Video-Based Intervention to Inspire Treatment Adherence for Life—Pilot of a Novel Video-Based Approach to HIV Counseling for Pregnant Women Living with HIV
Authors:
Maria H. Kim, Saeed Ahmed, Tapiwa Tembo, Rachael Sabelli, Robert Flick, Xiaoying Yu, Alick Mazenga, Holly Le Blond, Katie Simon, Miriam Hartig, Elizabeth Wetzel, Rose Nyirenda, Peter N. Kazembe, Mtisunge Mphande, Angella Mkandawire, Mike J. Chitani, Elaine J. Abrams
Published in:
AIDS and Behavior
|
Issue 11/2019
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Abstract
We developed and piloted a video-based intervention targeting HIV-positive pregnant women to optimize antiretroviral therapy (ART) retention and adherence by providing a VITAL Start (Video-intervention to Inspire Treatment Adherence for Life) before ART. VITAL Start (VS) was grounded in behavior-determinant models and developed through an iterative multi-stakeholder process. Of 306 pregnant women eligible for ART, 160 were randomized to standard of care (SOC), 146 to VS and followed for one-month. Of those assigned to VS, 100% completed video-viewing; 96.5% reported they would recommend VS. Of 11 health workers interviewed, 82% preferred VS over SOC; 91% found VS more time-efficient. Compared to SOC, VS group had greater change in HIV/ART knowledge (p < 0.01), trend towards being more likely to start ART (p = 0.07), and better self-reported adherence (p = 0.02). There were no significant group differences in 1-month retention and pharmacy pill count. VITAL Start was highly acceptable, feasible, with promising benefits to ART adherence.