Sociodemographic characteristics associated with medical appointment adherence among HIV-seropositive patients seeking treatment in a county outpatient facility.

摘要: Abstract Background. Adherence is a major problem facing HIV-seropositive patients. Low adherence has been associated with faster disease progression as well development of drug-resistant strains HIV. Thus it critical to understand factors treatment compliance. This study examined the independent contributions severity, age, gender, household income, homelessness, ethnicity, and sexual orientation on appointment adherence. Methods. Participants ( n = 671) scheduled for appointments in an outpatient county facility HIV-related medical care completed demographic questionnaires clinic staff collected attendance data. Results. Multiple regression analyses indicated that patients diagnosed AIDS, older receiving higher income were more likely keep appointments. Additionally, African American ethnicity identifying heterosexual missing Conclusions. These data suggest cultural sociodemographic characteristics influence patients' services. Implications interventions aimed at increasing are discussed.