Analysis on access to antiretroviral therapy for patients with different income and educational level, and the effect of treatment on quality of life after two to three months of therapy

Abstract

Access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV positive patients has brought hope and a chance to a healthier longer life with improved quality of life (QoL). In this study we explored the difference in health related quality of life (HRQoL) between participants eligible for ART and those not yet eligible for ART as per the 2015 South African HIV treatment guidelines. We also considered the impact of ART access on HRQoL and the effect of employment status and education level. The study was conducted at one tertiary hospital and two primary health care facilities in Johannesburg, South Africa.