The model and the problems and barriers in participation of HIV Positive people In the anti retro viral clinic, Somdej Phra Phutthlertla Hospital, Samut Songkhram Province

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to investigate the model of participation of HIV infected people in the Anti Retro Viral Clinic (ARV), and to study the problems and obstacles for people living with HIV to participate in the services of an ARV clinic, by using a survey research. A questionnaire was used as an instrument to collect data. The study population was 226 new HIV-infected patients who attended ARV clinics from 2014-2018.

The results of the study indicated that the HIV-positive sample had a high level of opinions in the overall aspect of the four areas of service participation: co-thinking, decision-making, collaboration, and co-evaluation and monitoring. When considering each aspect, it was found that in co-evaluation and monitoring, the samples were the most involved. From the study of the problems and obstacles to accessing services in 3 areas: physical, mental and family, and social, the overall aspect was at a low level. When considering each aspect, it was found that the mental aspect was the area that the sample felt was the biggest problem and obstacle. 

The recommendations from the study include practical recommendations for the improvement of ARV clinic services including providing services that take into account the confidentiality of patients, promoting psychological services. As for policy recommendations, the Ministry of Public Health should promote a greater understanding of HIV-positive patients and their health to reduce exclusion, rejection, or stigmatization.