A Mixed Methods Approach to Understanding Antiretroviral Treatment Preferences: What Do Patients Really Want?

As the number of effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) options increases, there is greater opportunity to involve HIV patients in ART selection. To establish the parameters for a shared ART decision-making process, we sought to identify ART characteristics that are important to patients and understand considerations in ART selection from both patient and provider perspectives. Using a mixed-methods approach, 16 patients and 12 healthcare providers were interviewed, and ranking tasks were conducted with 26 patients to identify ART characteristics that are relevant for shared decision making. Interviews were coded using direct content analysis and complemented by a quantitative analysis of references to specific attributes. Ranking data were analyzed through count analysis. Qualitative analysis of patient interviews identified four major categories of ART characteristics that are pertinent to shared decision making: side effects (14/16 patients), administration characteristics (14/16 patients), dosing (13/16 patients), and long-term effects (12/16 patients). Other considerations included expectations for patient involvement in ART decision making, relationship with provider, and efficacy. The degree of concordance between patients and providers differed across categories. Ranking exercises demonstrated differences in the ways providers and patients prioritize specific side effects and food requirements. Expectations for patient involvement in the selection process also varied greatly among and between patients and providers. We identify specific attributes of ART that are decision-relevant to patients and providers, describe heterogeneity of their relative importance, and note variable perceptions of shared decision making. Individualizing ART will require greater investment in understanding an individual patient's preferences, including her/his desire to participate in shared decision making.