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Telehealth Interventions for HIV in Low- and Middle Income Countries: Expanding Access and Care

Table of Contents

Introduction

Telemedicine — using video calls, mobile apps, messaging, and other digital tools — is transforming healthcare delivery worldwide. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where HIV prevalence remains high and healthcare access can be limited, telehealth offers a promising solution. This 2022 review examines how telehealth is supporting HIV prevention, treatment, and care in LMICs. The authors evaluated a range of programs, pilot studies, and models across multiple countries to assess effectiveness, challenges, and opportunities.

How the Study Worked

The researchers synthesized findings from multiple LMIC-based telehealth interventions, including: Remote antiretroviral therapy (ART) visits for patients on HIV treatment Tele-PrEP management to prevent HIV infection Online peer-support groups for emotional and practical support Tele-mentoring for healthcare providers, allowing experts to guide less-experienced clinicians remotely The review focused on how these programs improve access, outcomes, and equity, while also noting barriers to implementation in resource-limited settings.

Key Findings

Access and reach: Telehealth increases care access for patients in remote areas and those facing stigma at local clinics. Diverse models: Programs included virtual ART visits, PrEP monitoring, online peer-support, and provider tele-mentoring. Major barriers: Limited internet, unstable power, low digital literacy, and privacy concerns are significant obstacles. Evidence limitations: Most programs are small-scale pilots; long-term effects on viral suppression, retention in care, and mortality remain unclear. Call for investment: Authors emphasize scaling successful interventions, investing in infrastructure, and generating stronger evidence.

What We Still Don’t Know

Scale and evidence: Few large, randomized trials exist; robust studies are needed to measure long-term HIV outcomes. Infrastructure needs: Reliable internet and electricity are crucial for consistent telehealth delivery. Digital literacy and accessibility: Training and user-friendly designs are needed to ensure equitable use. Privacy and security: Protecting patient data, particularly in HIV care, is essential. Policy and reimbursement: Many LMIC health systems lack clear telehealth policies or funding models; evaluating cost-effectiveness and integration into national programs is necessary. Sustainability: Programs must move beyond pilot funding to establish long-term, scalable, and resilient models through partnerships with governments, NGOs, and telecoms.

Why It Matters

For the public

Telehealth can make HIV care more flexible, private, and accessible. Patients can receive clinical support, monitoring, and peer counseling from home — reducing travel burdens and exposure to stigma. This convenience may also improve retention in care, ultimately saving lives.

For researchers and health professionals

While promising, evidence for long-term outcomes is limited. There is a critical need for rigorous trials and implementation studies to evaluate feasibility, acceptability, and clinical impact. Innovations are required to ensure telehealth works reliably in low-resource settings with intermittent internet and electricity.

Relevance for Africa and LMICs

Countries facing high HIV burdens can benefit from decentralized care models. Telehealth can expand access to underserved communities, support provider training, and reduce barriers caused by distance, stigma, and healthcare shortages. Achieving this requires investments in digital infrastructure, policy development, and capacity building.

Global health and innovation

Telehealth represents a key innovation in HIV service delivery. When scaled effectively, it can make HIV care more equitable, flexible, and resilient — particularly in emergencies or resource-limited contexts. Policymakers, funders, and technology companies must collaborate to integrate telehealth into standard care sustainably.

Disclaimer

This blog post is an educational summary based on published scientific research. Full credit belongs to the original authors. Always consult the original study for complete details.

Acknowledgements

This article is based on the original research study:

Title: Telehealth interventions for HIV in low- and middle-income countries: a review

Authors: Jessica M. Phan, Sangmin Kim, Đoàn Thị Thùy Linh, Lisa A. Cosimi, Todd M. Pollack

Journal: Current HIV/AIDS Reports

Year: 2022

Open-access link: Click here to read full study

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