Ramdas, NishanaMeyer, Johanna CatharinaCameron, David A.2015-09-182015-09-182015-07-01Ramdas N, Meyer JC, Cameron D. Factors associated with retention in HIV care at Sediba Hope Medical Centre. S Afr J HIV Med. 2015;16(1), Art. #347, 6 pages. http://dx.DOI.org/ 10.4102/sajhivmed.v16i1.347.1608-9693 (print)2078-6751 (online)10.4102/sajhivmed.v16i1.347http://hdl.handle.net/2263/49974BACKGROUND : Lost to follow-up (LTFU) is a major challenge that hinders the success of antiretroviral treatment (ART). OBJECTIVE : To identify factors conducted to a low LTFU rate. METHODS : We conducted a two-part descriptive and quantitative study. Part 1 comprised interviews with clinic staff to determine their perspectives on LTFU and to establish the clinic’s follow-up procedures for patients on ART. Part 2 of the study was a retrospective review of clinic and patient records. LTFU patients were identified and those with contact details were contacted for telephonic interview to determine if they were still on ART and/or their reasons for becoming LTFU. RESULTS : A low LTFU rate (7.9%; N = 683) was identified. Work-related stress, and lack of transport and funds were reported reasons for LTFU. Monthly visits, non-adherent defaulters and LTFU patients were tracked by an electronic system (SOZO). Factors contributing to high rates of retention in care were: location of the clinic in the inner city, thus in close proximity to patients’ homes or work; clinic operating on Saturdays, which was convenient for patients who could not attend during the week; an appointment/booking system that was in place and strictly adhered to; a reminder SMS being sent out the day before an appointment; individual counselling sessions at each visit and referrals where necessary; and a stable staff complement and support group at the clinic. CONCLUSION : Achieving a low LTFU rate is possible by having a patient-centred approach and monitoring systems in place.en© 2015. The Authors. Licensee: AOSIS OpenJournals. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.Antiretroviral therapy (ART)PatientsClinicSupport groupLost to follow-up (LTFU)Health sciences articles SDG-03SDG-03: Good health and well-beingArticle