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Article History

Received: 8 November 2023

Accepted: 26 April 2024

First Online: 2 May 2024

Declarations

:

: The study protocol was reviewed and approved by the ethics committee of Kerman University of Medical Sciences (Ethics code: IR.KMU.REC.1401.181). Before each interview, the purpose and methods of the research were explained to potential participants. Oral informed consent was obtained due to HIV stigma and patients’ fear of signing documents in writing. The ethics committee also approved the oral informed consent method. Interviews were conducted with the commitment of the researcher to maintain anonymity and confidentiality of the information and the right of participants to leave the research at any time. Audio recording of the interview was done with the consent of the participants. No participant information was provided to VCT staff, and all interviews were stored in a password-protected folder. The receipt of services was not affected in any way by their participation or non-participation in the interview. The study method was conducted following available regulations and guidelines.

: Not applicable.

: The authors declare no competing interests.