Factors Influencing Timely Utilization of HIV Viral Load Test Results in HIV Care: A Qualitative Study at Kisenyi Health Centre IV, Kampala
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Structured Abstract Timely utilization of HIV viral load (VL) test results is critical for effective monitoring of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and achieving viral suppression among people living with HIV. However, delays in utilizing VL results remain a challenge in many resource-limited settings. This study explored the factors influencing timely utilization of VL test results at Kisenyi Health Centre IV in Kampala, Uganda. A qualitative study design was employed using key informant interviews and structured facility observations. Eighteen healthcare workers involved in HIV care and viral load management participated in the study, including clinicians, laboratory personnel, data clerks, counsellors, and facility management staff. Data were collected using semi-structured interview guides and observation checklists. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis guided by the Performance of Routine Information System Management (PRISM) Framework. Three major themes emerged: technical, behavioral, and organizational factors. Technical barriers included unstable digital systems, limited computer access, unreliable internet connectivity, and fragmented health information platforms that delayed result retrieval. Behavioral factors included workload pressures, training gaps, and varying levels of staff motivation and accountability. Organizational challenges included staffing shortages, weak supervision, inconsistent feedback mechanisms, and occasional stock-outs of printing materials. Observational findings confirmed that manual printing and re-entry of VL results into electronic systems contributed to delays in clinical decision-making. Timely utilization of viral load results is influenced by a combination of technical, behavioral, and organizational factors. Strengthening digital system integration, improving health worker capacity, and enhancing facility-level management support could significantly improve VL result utilization and HIV treatment outcomes.
Source: medRxiv
Institutions: Clarke International University, Uganda Martyrs University
Language: English
Subfield: Infectious Diseases
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7223455104