Predictors of HIV Related Stigma among Healthcare Providers in Lusaka, Zambia

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DOI: 10.21522/TIJPH.2013.08.03.Art041

Authors : Cecilia Chitambala

Abstract:

Background: Infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and AIDS remain a major public health crisis in Zambia [14]. One of the barriers to effective HIV response is the HIV-related stigma and discrimination among Healthcare providers towards patients receiving diagnostic procedure or treatment.

It’s suggested that most studies concentrate on perceptions of discrimination, with occasional studies involving explicit discriminatory behaviors [7]. The purpose of this study was to identify factors contributing to HIV stigma and discrimination among healthcare workers in order to recommend evidence-based interventions that would help reduce HIV-related stigma in order to enhance quality of HIV prevention, care and treatment.

Methodology: Using an analytic cross-sectional research design, 370 health providers’ attitudes and behaviors towards HIV-patients were analyzed and the driving factors of discriminatory behavior were explored, which provided countermeasures and sources for appropriate departments to eradicate prejudice in the medical field, protect the medical interests of PLHIV, support and monitor HIV prevention.

Results: Levels of stigma were reported by all groups included in the study; willingness to prohibit women living with HIV from having children (43%), wearing double gloves (64.5%), and using special infection control measures (50%) and avoided physical contact (36.5%) when caring for HIV infected clients.

Conclusion: The study revealed that the HIV stigma and discrimination by healthcare providers in urban Lusaka was not uncommon. Potential care and support for HIV patients should therefore concentrate on strengthening the cognitions and behaviors of Healthcare providers toward PLHIV to ensure that they receive prompt and effective treatment and assistance.

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