A registry file from each facility's reception was used as a sampling frame from which ARV users were selected for the study, using systematic sampling. This was done to avoid bias in the sample. A total of 200 people participated in the study. Of these, 130 were ARV users interviewed through the use of one of the following tools: FGD guide, adherence tool, semi-structured interview (SSI) guide, exit interview guide, key informant interview guide and observation guide. Fifty of the study participants were community members interviewed using the FGD guide and key informant interview guide. The remaining 20 participants were staff members interviewed using the FGD guide, SSIs and the pharmacy records tool.

The study included 10 FGDs, (five with ARV users, four with community groups who were categorized by sex, and one with health workers) which helped clarify issues raised by participants. Twenty exit interviews were undertaken with ARV users to establish the quality of care, procedures and conduct while at the facility. Another 20 ART users completed adherence measurement interviews to assess levels of adherence. Two pharmacy stock records were completed.

Table 1: Summary of study participants

* Focus group discussion, ** Semi-structured interview