Perspectives on oral health care integration in HIV care and research in low-resource settings: Insights from patients and key stakeholders in Uganda

Background Oral health conditions are common among people living with HIV, yet many have unmet needs for oral health care. In most low-income countries like Uganda, oral health is not yet integrated in the HIV care settings. We aimed to explore the stakeholder’s perspectives on oral health care integration in HIV care and research settings. Methods We conducted focused group discussions (FGDs) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) and semi-structured interviews among other key stakeholders that included policy makers, educators and practitioners in fields of HIV and oral health. The participants for both interviews and FGDs were selected purposively. The interviews and FGDs were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis approach in OpenCode software version 4.03. Results Four FGDs were conducted among 31 PLHIV, and interviews were conducted among 18 key stakeholders. The PLHIV acknowledged that oral manifestations are common and were associated with physical, psychological and social consequences which greatly affect their quality of life. They also reported facing stigma and discrimination in non-HIV settings where they seek oral care and advocated for the integration of oral health services in HIV care settings. The barriers to integration of oral health in HIV care identified by the key stakeholders included limited local research to inform policy, lack of clear policy on integration of oral health, inadequate trained health workers and limited resources to support research and integration of oral health services. Conclusion The findings highlight the urgent need to integrate oral health services into HIV care settings in Uganda. Addressing policy gaps, stigma, inadequate training, and limited research through stakeholder collaboration and capacity building could enhance access to oral care and strengthen the overall quality of life for people living with HIV.