Sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics associated with perceived discrimination in healthcare settings among Black persons with diagnosed HIV in the United States

Research that explores the intra-racial socio-demographic and clinical characteristics associated with perceived discrimination in healthcare settings in the US is lacking. We examined the prevalence of self-reported discrimination in HIV care settings during the past 12 months among Black persons from a nationally representative sample of US adults with diagnosed HIV collected 6/2018-5/2019. We assessed the prevalence of self-reported discrimination in HIV care settings during the past 12 months, perceived reasons for discrimination, and factors associated with discrimination among Black persons with diagnosed HIV (n = 1,631). Overall, 22% reported experiencing discrimination in a healthcare setting; discrimination was most often attributed to HIV status. Those reporting discrimination were younger, MSM, and living at or below the federal poverty level. They also experienced homelessness, incarceration and illicit substance use in the past 12 months, and anxiety and depression symptoms in the past 2 weeks. They were less likely to use ART or report 100% ART dose adherence in the past 30 days. No associations were found with viral suppression. Systems are needed to monitor, evaluate reports of, and address discrimination in healthcare settings. Incorporating anti-discrimination policies and continuing education opportunities for providers and staff may reduce experiences of discrimination among persons with HIV.