Peer Experiences In Supporting People With HIV (PLWH) On Antiretroviral (ARV) Therapy: A Qualitative Study

One of the domains of quality of life for people living with HIV (PLWH) is independence, which is how PLWH undergo antiretroviral therapy (ARV) adherently. PLWHA face various problems, including social problems such as stigma, ostracization, and discrimination. Social stigma can be a form of chronic stress for HIV/AIDS patients. One of the approaches used to improve intervention outcomes for PLWH is peer support. This study was conducted to explore in-depth the experiences of peer supporters in assisting PLHIV undergoing ARV therapy. This study was a qualitative research with a descriptive qualitative approach. Eight peer supporters who are members of peer support groups in Sorong City and Sorong Regency, and have been actively providing support to PLHIV for at least one year were purposively selected for this study. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews using a semi-structured interview guide. Data was collected over a period of one month, and analyzed thematically. Three main themes were generated, namely the benefits of peer support for ODHIV, barriers to the implementation of peer support, and efforts to overcome barriers. The conclusion of this study is that the support provided to ODHIV through peer supporters has a good impact on the achievement of care for ODHIV. The peer support program can be integrated with nursing programs and interventions for PLHIV. Although there are obstacles in its implementation, it can be resolved with the cooperation of various parties.