Objective To explore the effect of follow-up management based on the Behavior Change Wheel theory for newly treated HIV-infected outpatients. Methods A total of 73 newly treated HIV-infected outpatients were randomized into a control group (n=36) and an intervention group (n=37). The control group was given routine follow-up management, while the intervention group additionally received the follow-up management based on the Behavior Change Wheel theory. Results One year after the intervention, the total score and each subscale score of the Exercise of Self-Care Agency of the intervention group were significantly higher than those of the control group, its score of the 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale was significantly higher than that of the control group, and its CD4+ T lymphocyte count was significantly higher than that of the control group (all P<0.05). Conclusion The follow-up management based on the Behavioral Change Wheel theory is conducive to improving self-care ability and medication adherence in newly treated HIV-infected patients,and enhancing their treatment effect.