Enhancing engagement in HIV care among adolescents and young adults: A focus on phone-based navigation and relationship building to address barriers in HIV care

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002830
• Publication Date: 2025-01-09T18:45:34Z
• Authors: Harriet Fridah Ad...; Chanda Mwamba; Jayne Lewis-Kulzer; Sarah Iguna; Gladys Moraa Ontuga; Dorothy Imbuka Ma...; Everlyne Nyandieka; James Nyanga; Isaya Opondo; Joseph Osoro; Lina Montoya; Edwin Nyagesoa; Norton Sang; Eliud Akama; Elizabeth Bukusi; Lisa Abuogi; Elvin Geng; Zachary Arochi Kwena
• Keywords: Thematic Analysis; Peer Support

Structural, psychological, and clinical barriers to HIV care engagement among adolescents young adults living with (AYAH) persist globally despite gains in epidemic control. Phone-based peer navigation may provide critical support, increase delivery flexibility, require fewer resources. Prior studies show that phone-based automated text messaging interventions improve engagement, adherence, retention AYAH. However, little is known about AYAH experiences utilizing electronic (E-NAV). We assessed the of receiving address viral suppression. purposefully selected participants randomized E-NAV within Adapt for Adolescents Kisumu, Kenya, conducted 20 in-depth interviews. Interviews were by a trained qualitative researcher between October December 2021 explored topics such as health-seeking experiences, acceptability benefits, client-navigator relationship. The interviews audio-recorded transcribed. then applied inductive deductive coding, followed thematic analysis. Overall, found acceptable regard content frequency–particularly opportunity select preferred time calls/text messages, including evenings weekends. They tone navigator calls messages friendly, supporting relationship building. Further, AYAH-navigator relationships described fraternal, client-focused, confidential, which supported personal connection trust. Reported benefits included adherence appointment reminders, increased knowledge care, strategies stigma. Electronic promising method youth because it optimizes reach (both space) have severe constraints on both while preserving ability create rapport patients.