Andrew Sentoogo Ssemata, BCP, MSc, PhD
Nominated From: Indiana University
Research Site: Global Health Uganda
Research Area: Adolescent HIV care
Primary Mentor: Leslie A Enane
Research Project
Get Set and Go: Supporting transitions from pediatric to adult HIV services for adolescents and young people in Kampala, Uganda
Adolescents and young people (AYP) living with HIV have worse care outcomes than their adult counterparts. Despite the successes of antiretroviral therapy (ART) scale-up, this group faces unique challenges, especially during the transition from pediatric to adult HIV care. This transition involves more than a change in care setting; it requires AYP to take on responsibility for care engagement, with potential for poor ART adherence, loss to follow-up, and negative health outcomes. This mixed-methods participatory action research study aims to address barriers to successful transition for AYP (ages 13-24 years) in Uganda. The study has three goals: first, to conduct a scoping review of practice and transition models from pediatric to adult HIV care services for adolescents and young people living with HIV in the African context. Secondly, to generate mixed-methods data on transition readiness, experiences, and challenges for AYP, and how this process relates to HIV care engagement and mental well-being. Thirdly, to co-create with AYP and pilot an innovative transition support model tailored to AYP needs, which will be appropriate, feasible, and scalable across clinics in this setting. The research will be conducted at HIV clinics in Kampala and will involve a mixed methods process using human-centered design approaches i.e. structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and design workshops with AYP, peer supporters, healthcare providers, and caregivers. Data will be analyzed using a mixed-methods approach. The significance of this study lies in its potential to inform evidence-based transition strategies that enhance the care engagement and health outcomes of AYP living with HIV. By involving all relevant stakeholders in the co-creation process, the study aims to produce a practical and context-specific transition model that can be implemented in similar settings, contributing to the achievement of UNAIDS 95-95-95 goals and improving the overall health and well-being of adolescents and young people in Uganda and beyond.
Research Significance
This research addresses a critical gap in HIV care for adolescents and young people (AYP) in Uganda by focusing on the complex and underexplored process of transitioning from pediatric to adult HIV services. AYP living with HIV face heightened vulnerability due to developmental, psychosocial, and structural challenges that compromise treatment adherence and continuity of care. Inadequate transition support leads to preventable health deterioration, loss to follow-up, and increased mortality. This study aims to develop a contextually relevant transition model that strengthens long-term care engagement, promotes self-management, and improves health outcomes. By targeting a neglected phase in the HIV care continuum, the research will not only benefit a high-risk, underserved population in Uganda but also contribute to global efforts to achieve the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets.
Publications
Mentors
