title: Facilitators of HIV Medical Care Engagement Among Former Prisoners.
abstract: Linkage to and retention in medical care is a concern for HIV-positive individuals leaving custody settings in the United States. The minimal existing research points to low rates of entry into care in the months following release and lapsed viral control among releasees who are subsequently reincarcerated. We conducted seven small focus group discussions with 27 HIVpositive individuals who were recently incarcerated in a California State prison to understand those factors that facilitated linkage to and retention in HIV care following their release. We used a consensual approach to code and analyze the focus group transcripts. Four main themes emerged from the analysis: (1) interpersonal relationships, (2) professional relationships, (3) coping strategies and resources, and (4) individual attitudes. Improving HIV-related outcomes among individuals after their release from prison requires strengthening supportive relationships, fostering the appropriate attitudes and skills, and ensuring access to resources that stabilize daily living and facilitate the process of accessing care.
authors.affiliation: Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.
authors.forename: Natalie
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Bracken
authors.affiliation: Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.
authors.forename: Charles
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Hilliard
authors.affiliation: Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.
authors.forename: William J
authors.initials: WJ
authors.lastname: McCuller
authors.forename: Nina T
authors.initials: NT
authors.lastname: Harawa
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D019380:Anti-HIV Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001294:Attitude to Health; D002140:California; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D017144:Focus Groups; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008875:Middle Aged; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D011329:Prisoners / Q000523:psychology; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012944:Social Support
chemical_list: D019380:Anti-HIV Agents