Effect of a person-centered care intervention on return and sustained reengagement after treatment interruptions from HIV care in Zambia: A post-hoc analysis of a stepped-wedged cluster randomized trial.
PLoS MedSep 1, 2026 (epub)
Aaloke Mody, Kombatende Sikombe, Sandra Simbeza et al.
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In 30 seconds
This post-hoc analysis of a stepped-wedge cluster randomized trial evaluated a person-centered care (PCC) intervention in 24 Zambian clinics. The study found that the PCC intervention increased the incidence of return to HIV care after treatment interruptions (TIs) at 12 months (72.3% vs 67.7%) and decreased repeat TIs (44.3% vs 55.6%).
Key findings
- The PCC intervention increased return to care after TIs at 12 months (72.3% vs 67.7%).
- The intervention decreased repeat TIs among returners (44.3% vs 55.6%).
- Proportion in care at 12 months after return increased (82.7% vs 73.4%).
- Overall retention after TIs improved from 51.5% to 60.1%.
Why it matters
Improving client-provider interactions through person-centered care can enhance retention in HIV care, addressing significant barriers to reengagement. This is crucial for managing chronic conditions like HIV, where consistent care is essential for health outcomes.