Initial linkage and subsequent retention in HIV care for a newly diagnosed HIV-infected cohort in Denver, Colorado

Edward M. Gardner, Elaine Daniloff, Mark W. Thrun, Daniel H. Reirden, Arthur J. Davidson, Steven C. Johnson, Ralph Wilmoth, Elizabeth Connick, William J. Burman

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

15 Scopus citations

Abstract

This is a retrospective cohort study of 352 newly diagnosed HIV-infected individuals in Denver, from 2005 to 2007. Utilizing data from 3 health care systems, 2 clinical trials units, and statewide Colorado HIV laboratory reporting databases, we tracked initial linkage to HIV care, retention in care, loss to follow-up, and transitions between HIV care providers. After more than 2.6 years of follow-up, 256 (73%) individuals linked to HIV care within 180 days. Of the 301 individuals who eventually linked to care, 168 (56%) had at least one 180-day gap in care, while 49 (16%) had a 360-day gap. Transitions in care were common, with 131 (37%) individuals accessing care from 2 different providers and 15% having evidence of living outside of Colorado. In this newly diagnosed HIV-infected cohort, linkage to care was slow and long-term retention in care was poor. Transitions between HIV care providers were common and may impair engagement in care over time. Out-of-state migration was frequent and may cause an underestimation of engagement in care.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)384-390
Number of pages7
JournalJournal of the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care
Volume12
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 2013
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • AIDS
  • HIV
  • engagement in care
  • linkage to care
  • retention in care

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology
  • Dermatology
  • Infectious Diseases

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