title: HIV positive but not in care: a follow-up study from Thailand.
abstract: Twenty-two persons in Northern Thailand who knew of their HIV positivity but were not in care were identified. They had significant medical, economic, behavioral, and family problems. A nurse researcher carried out a 6-month intervention with them to (1) assess whether they would remain in contact with the researcher for 6 months and (2) assess whether they would make positive changes in their lives. All 22 participants remained in contact for 6 months. A 5-step intervention process resulted in substantial improvements in their lives. Eleven patients entered care. Five needed immediate antiretroviral therapy (ART) and improved their CD4 counts. Six others established primary care relationships for non-HIV care. Twelve obtained legal, full-, or part-time employment. Eight disclosed to family members. Nine participants and/or family members entered counseling. Twelve persons publicly disclosed themselves. Twelve reported reducing or stopping substance abuse. Of 4 sex workers, 2 ceased engaging in that work.
authors.affiliation: 1Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand.
authors.forename: Pratuma
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Rithpro
authors.forename: Richard M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: Grimes
authors.forename: Deanna E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Grimes
authors.forename: Wilawan
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Senaratana
mesh_terms: D019380:Anti-HIV Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018791:CD4 Lymphocyte Count; D003153:Community Health Services; D003376:Counseling; D004651:Employment; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006679:HIV Seropositivity / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000276:immunology / Q000523:psychology*; D015438:Health Behavior; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D020380:Needs Assessment; D024802:Nurse's Role; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D013785:Thailand; D035502:Trust; D014342:Truth Disclosure
chemical_list: D019380:Anti-HIV Agents