Hospitalization Rates and Outcomes Among Persons Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus in the Southeastern United States, 1996–2016

Abstract

Abstract Background Antiretroviral therapy (ART) advances, aging, and comorbidities impact hospitalizations in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–positive populations. We examined temporal trends and patient characteristics associated with hospitalization rates and outcomes. Methods Among patients in the University of North Carolina Center for AIDS Research HIV Clinical Cohort receiving care during 1996–2016, we estimated annual hospitalization rates, time to inpatient mortality or live discharge, and 30-day readmission risk using bivariable Poisson, Fine-Gray, and log-binomial regression models. Results The 4323 included patients (29% women, 60% African American) contributed 30 007 person-years. Overall, the hospitalization rate per 100 person-years was 34.3 (95% confidence interval [CI], 32.4–36.4) with a mean annual change of −3% (95% CI, −4% to −2%). Patients who were black (vs white), older, had HIV RNA >400 copies/mL, or had CD4 count <200 cells/μL had higher hospitalization rates (all P < .05). Thirty-day readmission risk was 18.9% (95% CI, 17.7%–20.2%), stable over time (P > .05 for both 2010–2016 and 2003–2009 vs 1996–2002), and higher among black patients, those with detectable HIV RNA, and those with lower CD4 cell counts (all P < .05). Higher inpatient mortality was associated with older age and lower CD4 cell count (both P < .05). Conclusions Hospitalization rates decreased from 1996 to 2016, but high readmissions persisted. Older patients, those of minority race/ethnicity, and those with uncontrolled HIV experienced higher rates and worse hospitalization outcomes. These findings underscore the importance of early ART and care engagement, particularly at hospital discharge.