Exploring Researcher Perceptions on Current HIV Care and Stigma Among HIVinfected Individuals in New York City

Abstract

Background: Several studies emphasize barriers and facilitators to HIV care; however, this article emphasizes the perspective of HIV researchers working in New York City with a focus on the shift in HIV stigma since 1980s. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to speak with researchers about the shift in the HIV care continuum and to discover differences between researcher and provider perspectives; particularly emphasizing the shift in stigma since the 1980s and the current barriers to HIV treatment in New York City. Methods: In this qualitative study, ten New York City researchers participated in semi structured in-depth interviews. Results: The main themes were the shift of HIV stigma since 1980, patient barriers to HIV care and facilitators to care. Since the 1980s, stigma has shifted from HIV/AIDS transmission to structural stigma around racial and economic barriers; once treatment options were discovered. Conclusions: Researchers work to gain greater knowledge about HIV treatment and their input is vital in articulating the needs of an HIV-infected individual. It is crucial to apply this finding to clinical practice to enhance the collaboration of researchers and providers.