Abstract
Abstract Objective: To investigate the statements of people living with HIV during a health follow-up through the WhatsApp® application. Methods: A descriptive study, using a qualitative approach, was conducted with 26 people accompanied by two specialized care services for HIV/AIDS in Fortaleza, Ceará. Data were collected from September 2016 to February 2017, with participants' statements given during the online follow-up and submitted to thematic content analysis. Results: The following categories emerged: difficulties with treatment, antiretroviral dose delayed or missed, side effects, association between antiretroviral drugs and alcohol, use of dietary supplements and medicines, emotional changes, life habits, social rights, physical symptoms, and coping with and committing to with treatment. Conclusion: Follow-up over WhatsApp® improved access to health professionals, by providing an open and immediate communication channel.
Highlights
The use of information and communication technologies in health care services began in the 1990s, with the expansion of social media, known as Web 2.0 or social networks, which are defined as a set of Internet-based tools aimed to help users connect, collaborate and communicate with other people in real time.[1]
In the context of HIV/AIDS, information and communication technologies have been suggested as tools aimed to improve access to health care services, through a decrease of geographical barriers and costs that involve prevention and treatment
When they are used in combination with usual care, they allow for strengthening health care services and improving quality of care, since they mitigate the difficulties experienced by people living with HIV.[4]
Summary
In the context of HIV/AIDS, information and communication technologies have been suggested as tools aimed to improve access to health care services, through a decrease of geographical barriers and costs that involve prevention and treatment. When they are used in combination with usual care, they allow for strengthening health care services and improving quality of care, since they mitigate the difficulties experienced by people living with HIV.[4]
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