Journal of the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care (Aug 2019)

Implementation of a Text Message to Improve Adherence to Clinic and Social Service Appointments

  • Nishal Anthony MD,
  • Jennifer Molokwu MD, MPH, FAAFP,
  • Ogechika Alozie MD, MPH, FACP,
  • Diego Magallanes BS

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1177/2325958219870166
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 18

Abstract

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Introduction: Attendance to clinic appointments and compliance with treatment plans are essential components of HIV/AIDS care. Compliance is especially important in young and minority individuals living with HIV/AIDS. We assessed the effectiveness of a text-based reminder system compared with usual care in improving the attendance to clinic and social work appointments at a Ryan White-funded clinic based in an academic institution. Methods: Convenience sample looking at 2 periods, 6 months before initiation of text messages and 6 months after initiation of text messages. Results: Following a 6-month postintervention period, we found a statistically significant reduction in our no-show rates (individuals failing to keep scheduled appointments) of 24.8% versus 17.7%, P value .05. Conclusion: Using an inexpensive online text messaging system, we were able to significantly decrease no-show rates in a primarily younger, low-income, and uninsured population.