title: "Working together to reach a goal": MSM's perceptions of dyadic HIV care for same-sex male couples.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Same-sex serodiscordant male dyads represent a high-priority risk group, with approximately one to two thirds of new HIV infections among men who have sex with men attributable to main partnerships. Early initiation and adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy is a key factor in HIV prevention and treatment; however, adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy in the United States is low, with poor retention throughout the continuum of care. This study examines the perceptions of dyadic HIV treatment of men who have sex with men across the continuum of care to understand the preferences for how care may be sought with a partner.
  
  
  METHODS
  We conducted 5 focus group discussions in Atlanta, GA, with 35 men who reported being in same-sex male partnerships. Participants discussed perceptions of care using scenarios of a hypothetical same-sex male couple who recently received serodiscordant or seroconcordant HIV-positive results. Verbatim transcripts were segmented thematically and systematically analyzed to examine patterns in responses within and between participants and focus group discussions.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Participants identified the need for comprehensive dyadic care and differences in care for seroconcordant HIV-positive versus serodiscordant couples. Participants described a reciprocal relationship between comprehensive dyadic care and positive relationship dynamics. This combination was described as reinforcing commitment, ultimately leading to increased accountability and treatment adherence.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Results indicate that the act of same-sex male couples "working together to reach a goal" may increase retention to HIV care across the continuum if care is comprehensive, focuses on both individual and dyadic needs, and promotes positive relationship dynamics.
authors.affiliation: *Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; and †Georgia Department of Public Health, Office of HIV Prevention, Atlanta, GA.
authors.forename: Tamar
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Goldenberg
authors.forename: Donato
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Clarke
authors.forename: Rob
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Stephenson
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D023241:Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active / Q000379:methods; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D005191:Family Characteristics; D005845:Georgia; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology*; D006679:HIV Seropositivity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D018451:Homosexuality, Male; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D055118:Medication Adherence; D008875:Middle Aged; D012747:Sexual Partners / Q000523:psychology*