The Hepatitis C treatment experience: Patients' perceptions of the facilitators of and barriers to uptake, adherence and completion

Abstract

Objective: This study explores the perceptions of patients receiving treatment for Hepatitis C to determine what factors influence their decision to commence treatment, ability to maintain adherence and complete their treatment program.

Design: Semi-structured interview techniques were used in a qualitative study of 20 patients undergoing treatment for Chronic Hepatitis C (CHC).

Main outcome measures: To explore patients' perceived barriers and facilitators of Hepatitis C treatment adherence and completion.

Results: Analysis of patient interviews identified four key themes: (1) motivations for commencing CHC treatment - fear of death and ridding themselves of stigma and shame; (2) the influential role of provider communication - patients reported that information and feedback that was personalised to their needs and lifestyles was the most effective for improving adherence to treatment; (3) facilitators of treatment adherence and completion - social, emotional and practical support improved adherence and completion, as did temporarily ceasing employment; (4) barriers to treatment adherence and completion - these included side effects, stigma, a complicated dosing schedule and limitations of the public healthcare system.

Conclusion: To increase treatment adherence and completion rates, a patient-centred approach is required that addresses patients' social, practical, and emotional support needs and adaptive coping strategies.

Keywords: Hepatitis C treatment; Hepatitis C virus; coping strategies; qualitative research; treatment adherence.