Case Study
Meaningful Mode of Delivery in HIV
HIV is a condition where treatments are very effective if taken consistently, yet is still highly stigmatised and where adherence can be a struggle. How can patients be better engaged? In particular, how can the mode of delivery of a new medication help people stick with their therapy?
We proposed 36 ethnographic HD Interviews in homes across the United States, as we wanted to hear about peoples’ lives and tensions, but also witness (and ask about) the practical challenges they faced.
Each interview lasted 3 hours, with a pre-task investigating the meaning of HIV “in the here and now” as well as since diagnosis.
The research identified a seemingly paradoxical resentfulness towards life-saving new treatments. Now, with a life expectancy comparable to HIV negative people, the key question becomes how to live a ‘normal life.’
Two modes of delivery were identified that help patients feel more ‘normal’ and empowered (even proud) to take control of the disease.