Moderating factors influencing adherence to ART services and scheduled hospital appointments among adults living with HIV in the Lower Manya Krobo Municipality of Ghana

Poor adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and missed hospital appointments remain significant barriers to effective HIV/AIDS management in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in communities with limited health infrastructure. The study examined the moderating factors influencing adherence to ART services and scheduled hospital appointments among adults living with HIV in the Lower Manya Krobo Municipality (LMKM), Ghana. Using an exploratory case study design with a qualitative approach, data was gathered from 17 purposively selected participants, comprising 12 adults living with HIV and 5 health professionals. The findings revealed that positive attitudes of health workers, physical location and structure of the HIV centre, availability and reliable supply of ART drugs, timely attendance to and treatment of adults living with HIV at the HIV centre and the presence of non-stigmatising and non-discriminatory attitudes towards adults living with HIV played a significant role in influencing adherence to ART services and scheduled hospital appointments in the LMKM. The study recommends that the Ministry of Health, through the Ghana Health Service, in collaboration with the Ghana AIDS Commission, design policies to encourage the establishment of isolated HIV care centres across all hospitals and clinics in Ghana to enhance ART adherence and hospital appointments among PLHIV. Supply of ART drugs to health facilities should be done in a timely manner to ensure treatment of people living with HIV and promote adherence to ART services and retention in care.