Factors that influence communication between healthcare providers and sexual minority men in HIV service delivery in Zambia

Studies that have investigated client-provider interactions in HIV service delivery have focused mainly on the views of sexual and gender minorities. This study explored the views of both Healthcare Providers (HCPs) and Sexual Minority Men (SMM) in Zambia about factors that influence client-provider interactions and how this could affect HIV service delivery. We conducted in-depth interviews with 20 HCPs (>25 years old) and 20 SMM (20-34 years old) purposively recruited from Lusaka with help from local partners in 2021. Interviews lasted 30-80 min, were conducted in English, and were audio-recorded. Verbatim transcripts of audio files were iteratively coded using Nvivo. Thematic analysis was performed using the inductive approach. Study findings suggest that a lack of trust in HCPs among SMM and the religious and cultural persuasions of some HCPs negatively impact communication between SMM and HCPs. The above factors will likely make establishing a good working relationship between HCPs and SMM difficult and could negatively influence HIV service delivery. Therefore, promoting an SMM-friendly environment at health facilities and promoting HCPs' understanding of the health needs of SMM are critical to ensure the delivery of quality HIV services to SMM in Zambia.