Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the key to prolonging HIV patients’ lives, improving their health, and preventing onward HIV transmission. However, in order for this to happen, patients need to stay on treatment continuously, which can be a challenge for many of them. When ART patients stop treatment, they risk developing resistance to medication.

To help this situation, USAID’s Sustainable HIV Response from Technical Assistance (SHIFT) activity developed a nationwide Enhanced Retention Intervention data system that standardizes monitoring of patients who stop taking their ARVs; systematically analyzes and addresses root causes of treatment dropout; and tests retention tactics, such as SMS appointment reminders. USAID analyzed results from the first 12 months of implementation across treatment facilities in four provinces and found a 60% decrease in ART dropouts.

So What? These promising results show that the Enhanced Retention Intervention model serves as a powerful tool in Vietnam’s HIV response. The project will continue supporting HIV stakeholders to implement the strategy and realize the full benefits of ART for the well-being of HIV patients, those at risk of transmission, and the health facilities and communities in which they live.