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Annals of Behavioral Medicine
Published in: Annals of Behavioral Medicine 1/2014

01-02-2014 | Original Article

Barriers and Facilitators to Engagement and Retention in Care among Transgender Women Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Authors: Jae M. Sevelius, Ph.D., Enzo Patouhas, M.A., JoAnne G. Keatley, M.S.W., Mallory O. Johnson, Ph.D.

Published in: Annals of Behavioral Medicine | Issue 1/2014

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Abstract

Background

Transgender women have 49 times the odds of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection compared to other groups, yet they are disproportionately underserved by current treatment efforts.

Purpose

This study aimed to examine culturally unique barriers and facilitators to engagement and retention in HIV care and strengthen efforts to mitigate health disparities, guided by the Models of Gender Affirmation and Health Care Empowerment.

Methods

Through 20 interviews and five focus groups (n = 38), transgender women living with HIV discussed their experiences and life contexts of engagement in and adherence to HIV care and treatment.

Results

Our participants faced substantial challenges to adhering to HIV care and treatment, including avoidance of healthcare due to stigma and past negative experiences, prioritization of hormone therapy, and concerns about adverse interactions between antiretroviral treatment for HIV and hormone therapy. Receiving culturally competent, transgender-sensitive healthcare was a powerful facilitator of healthcare empowerment.

Conclusions

Recommendations are offered to inform intervention research and guide providers, emphasizing gender affirming HIV care that integrates transition-related healthcare needs.
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Metadata
Title
Barriers and Facilitators to Engagement and Retention in Care among Transgender Women Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors
Jae M. Sevelius, Ph.D.
Enzo Patouhas, M.A.
JoAnne G. Keatley, M.S.W.
Mallory O. Johnson, Ph.D.
Publication date
01-02-2014
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Annals of Behavioral Medicine / Issue 1/2014
Print ISSN: 0883-6612
Electronic ISSN: 1532-4796
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12160-013-9565-8

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