Preferences regarding medical and psychosocial support in HIV-infected patients

Adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is crucial for successful treatment of HIV-infected patients. Among other factors, meeting patients' preferences regarding medical and psychosocial support may have significant impact on adherence to HAART. But, systematic studies on HIV-infected patients' preferences regarding professional support are rare. We investigated preferences of German HIV-infected outpatients with HAART regarding medical and psychosocial support in a prospective study using qualitative and quantitative measures, e.g. semi-structured interviews and a questionnaire-based conjoint analysis (CA). CA was applied in 163 patients (93% male, 96% caucasians, age 42.2±10.3 years). Patients of our clinic predominately expect higher levels of personal support by their physicians, e.g. more flexible consultation time and telephone contacts, more disease related information by seminars or brochures, and additional counseling regarding psychosocial problems and dietary management, than applied in a German standard care setting. Prospective intervention studies are necessary to analyse whether meeting patients preferences regarding professional support can enhance adherence to HAART.