Delays in third-line antiretroviral therapy and outcomes in North West province

Conclusion: This study showed a prolonged waiting period for TLART initiation mainly between detected high viral load to requesting of resistance tests; many factors could have contributed, including clinicians’ delayed responses to elevated viral loads. Mortality was high before TLART could be initiated. T he process of TLART initiation needs to be made more efficient. Healthcare services should be strengthened to (1) recognise and manage virological failure early and identify those eligible for resistance testing, (2) ensure access to resistance testing and appropriately skilled clinicians, and (3) s treamline approvals and delivery of TLART.
Source: Southern African Journal of HIV Medicine - Category: African Health Authors: Source Type: research