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Young people living with HIV (YLWH) have some of the lowest rates of retention in HIV care, putting them at risk for negative health outcomes. To better understand retention in care in this age group, we conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of YLWH initiating care at a multidisciplinary, adolescent-focused HIV clinic (N = 344). Retention was calculated using a variety of definitions, and relationships between different definitions were assessed. During the 1-year study period, on average YLWH missed two scheduled appointments, and attended 80% of appointments, usually at least once every 3 months. About one-quarter experienced a 6-month gap in care and about two-thirds met the Health Resources and Services Administration's retention criteria. Although most retention definitions were significantly correlated, not all were. Researchers, clinicians, and policymakers should consider the impact of varying definitions of retention, in order to optimally measure this outcome in YLWH, a key vulnerable population.

Mobile health interventions to promote adherence to antiretroviral therapy among adolescents and young adults living with HIV represent a promising strategy. This pilot study (N = 37) evaluated the psychosocial impacts of an efficacious adherence intervention, cell phone support (CPS). Participants receiving CPS reported significant decreases in perceived stress, depression, and illicit substance use, and increases in self-efficacy during at least one study assessment period, in comparison to participants receiving usual care. Future research using a larger sample should test for mediators of treatment efficacy to further characterize how cell phone interventions impact adherence.