Perceptions and Experiences of HIV Nurses on Peer Support for People Living With HIV in the Netherlands: A Qualitative Study

Background Peer support is an important intervention to achieve increased quality of life for people with HIV. We set out to understand the perceptions and experiences of HIV nurses with peer support in the Netherlands. Methods We conducted 21 semi-structured interviews which were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Regarding referral to peer support services, we found that nurses favoured patients with the larger presumed burden of living with HIV. Nurses identified logistical and personal barriers with referrals: additional workload, lack of belief in peer support programs, concerns about the impact on their patients because of earlier unfavourable experiences with peer support. Patients are often considered not being ready for peer support and are fearful of unwanted disclosure by others. A good personal connection with peers and having peers in active care facilitated linkage to peer support by increasing visibility and proximity. Conclusions We suggest that closer integration of peer support into formal care is a possible solution to the existing barriers.