A cross sectional study to assess the patient�s satisfaction with services provided at Antiretroviral Therapy centers in Lucknow

DR.MUKESH SHUKLA

Volume : V, Issue : V, May - 2016

A cross sectional study to assess the patient�s satisfaction with services provided at Antiretroviral Therapy centers in Lucknow

Dr. Mukesh Shukla

Abstract :

Introduction : Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has changed HIV infection and disease from being a sure predictor of death to a manageable chronic illness. Maintaining optimal adherence to antiretroviral drugs is essential for HIV infection management. The purpose of this work was to assess the satisfaction of the patients with the services provided at the Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) centers in Lucknow. Methods : A cross sectional study was conducted among patients attending two ART Centers located in Lucknow, capital city of Uttar Pradesh. Data was collected about socio-demographic characteristics of 322 patients and their perception towards the ART services provided at these centers with the help of a predesigned and pretested schedule. Results: All the patients (100%) were satisfied with the schedule and timing of the center, total time taken at center for consultation during their monthly visit and with the arrangement provided in the waiting hall. About 10.6% of the patients were unsatisfied with the adequacy of drug indented per patient and with the monthly visit for follow-up. Conclusion: Majority of the patients were satisfied with the services provided at the ART centre. Therefore it is necessary to sustain these center based services on a long term. The patients should always be involved in the treatment process and their opinions should be taken as they are important stake holders.