Exploring the Treatment Journey of People Living With HIV in Iran: A Qualitative Study.

INTRODUCTION: Today, HIV infection is considered among the most important infectious diseases worldwide. This study aimed to explore the challenges of people living with HIV (PLHIV) on treatment journey. METHODS: This study was conducted using a qualitative approach and the content analysis method at the Behavioral Diseases Consultation Center and the Positive Club of Kerman, Iran, from September 2023 to August 2024. A total of 27 individuals, including 17 PLHIV, 5 caregivers, and 5 social work and HIV professionals, were recruited using purposive sampling. Data were collected using individual semistructured interviews, field attendance, and note-taking. RESULTS: Data analysis resulted in 1258 primary codes, which were categorized with the theme of challenges of living with HIV into 30 subcategories and 7 main categories, including emotional and psychological tensions, objective and behavioral reflections, social deprivation, unfavorable social policies, changes in life, labeling, poor quality, and insufficient medical services. CONCLUSION: Due to the numerous problems and challenges faced by PLHIV during their treatment, they need comprehensive support from their families, caregivers, and society. Ensuring access to appropriate medical services and enhancing public awareness and understanding of PLHIV and their caregivers through education are essential. Such measures can contribute to improved treatment adherence, better quality of life, and more effective patient-centered care for PLHIV.