Evaluating the usability, acceptability, and perceptions of a client tool for early ART engagement among recipients of care and healthcare providers

Organization: HE²RO

Study objective: To explore perceptions of the usability and acceptability of using a client tool (a visual guide outlining what clients should expect, and what is expected of them, during the early treatment period, including interim milestones and long-term goals) among recipients of care and healthcare providers in Gauteng Province. In order to achieve this objective, we will:

Explore client acceptability and perceptions of the features of the “client tool” with respect to providing a visual guide to what clients should expect, and what is expected of them, during the early treatment period. Explore healthcare provider perceptions on the clinical appropriateness of the client tool for counselling.
Determine which clients are most likely to benefit from using a client tool during the early treatment journey from the client and healthcare provider perspectives.
Understand client preferences regarding the format and mode of delivery of the client tool.

Intervention description: The Retain6 team developed a client tool (roadmap) to support individuals during the early ART period. This tool was designed as a visual guide for clients, outlining the HIV care journey and key milestones during the first six months on treatment to prepare recipients of care to start treatment, then successfully continue on their treatment through to HIV viral load suppression and beyond. Unlike standard informational materials, the tool was structured to set clear expectations of the early treatment period for both clients and providers, helping to support continuous engagement by mapping out interim goals and long-term retention strategies. The first version of the tool was co-designed with input from NDOH officials, implementing partners, and facility managers to ensure alignment with national guidelines and service delivery realities. Following this, the Indlela@HE2RO team hosted a design session with the Retain6 team to integrate behavioural science principles into the tool, ensuring that it was user-friendly, motivating, and effective in supporting adherence and retention.

Evaluation description: We will conduct focus group discussions with participants to explore the acceptability and perceptions of the client tool’s features, determining the types of clients who may benefit from it, and preferences for its format and delivery. We will also conduct FGDs with healthcare providers to explore the clinical appropriateness of the client tool for counselling, and identify which clients may benefit most from its use during the early treatment journey.

Study site: We will draw on a sample of enrolled participants residing in Johannesburg from the Indlela B-Hub. Focus group discussions will be conducted in-person at the Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office or in-person at a venue that is convenient for participants.

Target population:

Inclusion criteria for clients