Enhancing adherence to HAART: a pilot program of modified directly observed therapy.
Based on the model of directly observed therapy (DOT) for tuberculosis, we implemented an uncontrolled pilot program of modified DOT to increase adherence to HAART. Participants met every weekday with an outreach worker who observed them taking the morning dose of HAART. Thirty-seven patients with a history of poor adherence were enrolled and followed for a mean duration of 10 months. The program was feasible and well accepted by the participants. Self-reported adherence to nonobserved doses improved, and those who remained in the program for a year (n = 18) demonstrated a mean 1.53-log decrease from baseline in plasma HIV RNA level.
Stenzel
M S
MS
Vancouver Clinic, Vancouver, Wash., USA.
McKenzie
M
M
Mitty
J A
JA
Flanigan
T P
TP
D000328:Adult; D023241:Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active / Q000523:psychology; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D010349:Patient Compliance; D010865:Pilot Projects