Retention and effectiveness of HIV/AIDS training of traditional healers in far western Nepal
Poudel, K.C.; Jimba, M.; Joshi, A.B.; Poudel-Tandukar, K.; Sharma, M.; Wakai, S.
Tropical Medicine and International Health Tm and Ih 10(7): 640-646
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 1360-2276 PMID: 15960702 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3156.2005.01443.xDocument Number: 254981
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate HIV/AIDS training for traditional healers (THs) in far western Nepal. METHODS: We collected data using a structured questionnaire and assessed THs' knowledge of HIV transmission, misconceptions and preventive measures immediately prior to the initial training conducted from June to December 1999, and then 9-12 months after the training in 2000. We also conducted six focus group discussions (FGD) and assessed THs' performances after the training. We interviewed 12 key informants about their perceptions towards the trained THs. RESULTS: THs significantly improved their knowledge of HIV transmission, misconceptions and preventive measures after the training. The FGD and key informant interview results showed that the trained THs provided culturally acceptable HIV/AIDS education to the local people, distributed condoms and played a role in reducing the HIV/AIDS-related stigma. CONCLUSIONS: THs have a potential to work as key players in HIV/AIDS programmes in Nepal.