HIV/AIDS remains a serious global health issue, including in Gorontalo Province, which has experienced a significant increase in cases, particularly in the North City district. The success of antiretroviral (ARV) therapy heavily relies on patient adherence to regular medication intake. This study aims to determine the distribution of HIV patient characteristics and to describe antiretroviral medication adherence among HIV patients at the North City Primary Health Center (Puskesmas Kota Utara). This quantitative study employed an observational descriptive design with a cross-sectional approach, utilizing a sample of 36 PLWHA (People Living with HIV/AIDS) selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected online using the Medication Adherence Report Scale-5 (MARS-5) questionnaire and analyzed univariately. The results showed that the respondents were predominantly aged 26–45 years (52.8%), male (97.22%), had a high school education or equivalent (50%), had a treatment duration of 1–3 years (83.33%), and all used the FDC TLD regimen (100%). A total of 34 respondents (94.44%) were classified as adherent (scores of 23–25), with 30 of them achieving the maximum score of 25, while 2 respondents (5.56%) were classified as non-adherent (scores of 5–22). This study concludes that the level of ARV medication adherence among HIV patients at the North City Primary Health Center is high; however, periodic evaluations and continuous education remain necessary to prevent treatment fatigue.
Copyrights © 2026