Perceived challenges of DRM testing: lack of timeliness
opportunistic infections, anxiety
OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTIONS
Another challenge stated by providers and policymakers was the overall delay associated with the SOC DRM testing process. Overwhelmingly, providers emphasized that mandatory bureaucratic processes and approvals delayed DRM testing procedures, due to the significant delays caused by the additional steps of enhanced adherence counseling summaries, directly observed therapy, and technical group discussions. During these delays, providers reported that patients’ overall health worsened with some patients developing opportunistic infections and, in one instance, one patient dying after waiting four months for test results. In contrast to the SOC protocols, many providers and policymakers perceived that timely reception of DRM testing results allowed providers to make clinical decisions and change patient ART regimens quickly.In addition to providers and policymakers, patients also communicated dissatisfaction with the delays associated with the DRM testing process, desiring to know as soon as possible if their medication was working and if drug regimen changes were necessary. Patients, providers, and policymakers noted that timely reception of DRM testing results would decrease patient anxiety when waiting for results. As reported by providers, patients too felt that timely reception of DRM testing results was important to provide assurance and motivation to them.