Improving the quality of care for persons with HIV infection in sub-Saharan Africa
Colebunders, R.; Decock, R.; Mbeba, M.J.
Tropical and Geographical Medicine 47(2): 78-81
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 0041-3232 PMID: 8592768 Document Number: 296958
In resource-poor sub-Saharan Africa, it is very difficult to care for persons with HIV/AIDS. African countries have to depend essentially on themselves to fight against AIDS. Health care providers and decision makers in sub-Saharan Africa need to first examine how care of these persons is currently organized and then to learn how to use the limited financial resources in the most cost-effective way. They need to plan health care interventions in such a way as to avoid additional harm. They should not create false hopes and false needs, not misuse the HIV test, and not spend money on research that does not lead to useful health measures applicable in the region where the research is conducted. Instead, health care providers and decision makers should define real research priorities, strengthen the health care system, decentralize care and organize home care, introduce treatment strategies with a high benefit/cost ratio, organize social support, fight discrimination and misconceptions, and establish realistic priorities. They should also better listen to patients and their families to identify their needs and demands. Health care providers and decision makers should also promote cooperation among communities.