Long‐term success for people living with HIV: A framework to guide practice

Abstract

AbstractObjectivesIn recent decades, the needs of people living with HIV have evolved as life expectancy has greatly improved. Now, a new definition of long‐term success (LTS) is necessary to help address the multifaceted needs of all people living with HIV.MethodsWe conducted a two‐phase research programme to delineate the range of experiences of people living with HIV. The insights garnered from these research phases were explored in a series of expert‐led workshops, which led to the development and refinement of the LTS framework.ResultsThe insights generated from the research phases identified a series of themes that form a part of LTS. These themes were subsequently incorporated into the LTS framework, which includes five outcome pillars: sustained undetectable viral load, minimal impact of treatment and clinical monitoring, optimized health‐related quality of life, lifelong integration of healthcare, and freedom from stigma and discrimination. A series of supporting statements were also developed by the expert panel to help in the achievement of each of the LTS pillars.ConclusionsThe LTS framework offers a comprehensive and person‐centric approach that, if achieved, could help improve the long‐term well‐being of people living with HIV and support the LTS vision of ‘every person living with HIV being able to live their best life’.