Physician-patient relationships, patient satisfaction, and antiretroviral medication Adherence among HIV-infected adults attending a public health clinic

AIDS Patient Care STDS. 2002 Jan;16(1):43-50. doi: 10.1089/108729102753429398.

Abstract

The goal of this project was to explore the connections between human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients adherence to antiretroviral medication treatment regimens and their beliefs about and satisfaction with their primary care physicians. In-depth interviews were conducted with 28 HIV-positive patients. Results showed that most patients were extremely satisfied with their current primary care physicians. When patients were dissatisfied with their care, it was often because there was a mismatch between the patient's expectations of care and the physician's consultation style. Results also showed that good quality physician-patient relationships tended to promote adherence while lesser quality relationships impeded it. Findings suggest that strengthening and promoting the bonds between physicians and HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients should be an absolute priority, at both the interpersonal level of physician-patient interactions but also at the organizational level.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Ambulatory Care Facilities
  • Anti-HIV Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Female
  • HIV Seropositivity / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Compliance / psychology*
  • Patient Satisfaction*
  • Physician-Patient Relations*
  • San Francisco

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents