Dissonance of Choice: Biomedical and Lived Perspectives on HIV Treatment-Taking

Med Anthropol. 2020 Nov-Dec;39(8):675-688. doi: 10.1080/01459740.2020.1720981. Epub 2020 Feb 20.

Abstract

Treat-all recommends prompt treatment initiation for those diagnosed HIV positive, requiring adaptations to individuals' behavior and practice. Drawing on data from a longitudinal qualitative study in Eswatini, we examine the choice to initiate treatment when asymptomatic, the dissonance between the biomedical logic surrounding Treat-all and individuals' conceptions of treatment necessity, and the navigation over time of ongoing engagement with care. We reflect on the perspectives of healthcare workers, responsible for implementing Treat-all and holding a duty of care for their patients. We explore how the potentially differing needs and priorities of individuals and the public health agenda are navigated and reconciled. Rationalities regarding treatment-taking extend beyond the biomedical realm, requiring adjustments to sense of self and identity, and decision-making that is situated and socially embedded. Sense of choice and ownership for this process is important for individuals' engagement with treatment and care.

Keywords: Eswatini; HIV; Treat-all; decision-making; engagement with care.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anthropology, Medical
  • Asymptomatic Infections / therapy
  • Clinical Decision-Making*
  • Eswatini
  • HIV Infections / therapy*
  • Health Personnel*
  • Humans
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Qualitative Research