Provider inaccuracy in assessing adherence and outcomes with newly initiated antiretroviral therapy.

We studied the ability of providers to predict and estimate patient adherence to newly initiated highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Nineteen providers referring 40 patients into an adherence study were surveyed. Widespread inaccuracy was found in providers' adherence predictions and estimates. Therefore, HAART should not be withheld solely on provider predictions of adherence. Providers should not rely on their own assessments when attempting to determine if patients are adhering to therapy.