Various structural factors influenced early antiretroviral therapy initiation amongst HIV infected prisoners: a qualitative exploration in South Ethiopia

Abstract Background Early initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) reduces the development acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), non-AIDS related comorbidities and mortality, prevents transmission. However, prevalence delayed ART amongst prisoners in sub-Saharan African countries is high contributing factors to this are relatively unknown. Methods Qualitative interviewing was employed understand prisoners’ lived world with regard initiating associated barriers facilitators South Ethiopian prison system. We interviewed seven (five male two female) inmates living HIV (ILWH) eleven stakeholders who had a role human virus (HIV) care provision for incarcerated people. A phenomenological approach used analyse interview data which meaning attributed experiences participants abstracted. Results In study, discussed both to, of, early during incarceration. The included lack access voluntary counselling testing (VCT) services, poor linkage due insufficient health staff training, uncooperative security systems loss privacy regarding disclosure status. Insufficient training contributed patient privacy, ultimately resulting treatment refusal. Although most described importance peer education support enhancing programs prisoners, there been decline such interventions correctional facilities. Service providers suggested opportunities that environment offers identification infected individuals implementation programs. Conclusions Our study identified crucial key priority population group. Interventions address while strengthening may enhance greater utilisation ART.