Improving PMTCT implementation in Masaka district, Uganda : drawing from other resource poor settings' experiences
Document type: mthesis
Download file(s):
185341 (642 KB)
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Masaka district (Uganda) has been implementing the PMTCT program for about eight years. Progressive improvement in uptake of counselling and testing services is registered. However, the fraction of HIV positive women and babies remaining in the continuum of care is persistently low. METHODOLOGY: The thesis was an analytical and descriptive study based on review of the available literature from Resource-poor Settings including Uganda, and annual PMTCT reports, and other relevant documents from Masaka district. Drawing from other resource-poor country experiences, the major objective of the study was to identify and propose best practices for implementing PMTCT programme in Masaka District, Uganda. FINDINGS: The main barriers to effective utilisation of PMTCT services that were identified are individual factors: stigma and discrimination, disclosure problems, low male involvement. These are deeply entrenched in the structural factors (gender inequity, poverty and culture), and are reinforced by institutional factors particularly the low staffing levels; which limit the client-provider interaction and thus making it difficult for the clients to overcome some of their challenges. CONCLUSION: Effective PMTCT programme implementation in Masaka will require further health system strengthening but more importantly active participation of the local community through outreach and home based care programmes. However, this can only be successful if there is stakeholders involvement namely Local Administrations, support groups, CBOs etc. As a long term strategy to overcome the structural barriers – which are responsible for the chronicity of the individual factors-, a multisectoral coordination will be important for the community empowerment process.
Authors:
Nakachwa, I
Country:
Uganda
Category:
Research
Department:
Development Policy & Practice
Institute:
KIT (Royal Tropical Institute)
Keywords:
HIV and AIDS
,
disease prevention and control
,
reproductive health
,
communities
Language:
eng
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
PAGE:
51
Year:
2009
Region:
East Africa
Right:
© 2009 Nakachwa
Subject:
Health and Nutrition
Title:
Improving PMTCT implementation in Masaka district, Uganda : drawing from other resource poor settings' experiences
Training:
Master of Public Health / International Course in Health Development (ICHD)