Delays in third-line antiretroviral therapy and outcomes in North West province.

Background: Rapid switching from second-line to third-line antiretroviral therapy (TLART) is crucial for achieving viral suppression and reducing illness related to ART failure.

Objectives: This retrospective cohort study quantified the waiting periods for TLART initiation after virological failure on second-line therapy was detected, assessed factors associated with delays and assessed the outcomes of patients started on TLART.

Method: Data were abstracted from records of individuals eligible for TLART, and the time to TLART initiation was calculated.