ENHANCING HIV CARE IN NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA: THE ROLE OF CLINICAL MENTORSHIP ON PATIENT RETENTION

Retention in HIV care is a vital component of achieving epidemic control and ensuring the success of treatment programs. Interruption in treatment (IIT) undermines this goal and is associated with poor health outcomes, including increased morbidity and mortality. This study evaluates the effect of the National Clinical Mentorship Program on client retention in care and reduction of IIT among HIV clients in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The study involved 47 health facilities in Nasarawa State where clinical mentors were deployed. In these facilities, mentors supported immediate tracking of clients who missed appointments and facilitated the return of these individuals to care. Data covering November 2021 to August 2022 were extracted from the Retention and Audit Determination Tool (RADET) and analyzed using descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariate analyses, including Chi-square and logistic regression, to compare outcomes pre- and post-mentorship deployment. Following the mentorship intervention, the IIT rate dropped significantly from 7% to 0.5%. The age group 25–34 years had the highest IIT burden but still experienced a decline from 41.6% to 33.3%. Pregnant women were more likely to experience IIT compared to non-pregnant women. Tertiary facilities recorded the highest IIT rates, underscoring systemic challenges at higher-level care centers. The mentorship program successfully facilitated improved client tracking, care continuity, and reduction in attrition. The implementation of a structured clinical mentorship program significantly reduced IIT and improved retention in HIV care in Nasarawa State. Tailored mentorship and gender-sensitive strategies are recommended for sustained improvements and to meet UNAIDS’ 95-95-95 goals