IADR Abstract Archives
Experiences navigating the health system of people living with HIV/AIDS
Objectives: To identify experiences of people diagnosed and treated with HIV/AIDS in the Chilean health system.
Methods: Qualitative, phenomenological study with a descriptive design. In depth semi-structured interviews were conducted, evaluating topics of: diagnosis, treatment, AUGE, and oral health. Participants were people living with HIV/AIDS. Data was collected until saturation, and later analysed with the qualitative data analysis software Nvivo 10.
Results: 17 participants were interviewed. Most of the interviewed participants narrated a delay in their diagnosis, not receiving much information about their new health condition, nor being offered initial psychological support. Lack of perceived confidentiality about their condition by health professionals, associated risk behaviours, feelings of fear, and discrimination were main topics.
Conclusions: Perceived barriers for people living with HIV/AIDS may hinder early diagnosis and adhesion to treatment within the health system. Education of health professionals is key to develop supportive environments for diagnosed patients. Promotion of health services that these patients can access should be enhanced.
Methods: Qualitative, phenomenological study with a descriptive design. In depth semi-structured interviews were conducted, evaluating topics of: diagnosis, treatment, AUGE, and oral health. Participants were people living with HIV/AIDS. Data was collected until saturation, and later analysed with the qualitative data analysis software Nvivo 10.
Results: 17 participants were interviewed. Most of the interviewed participants narrated a delay in their diagnosis, not receiving much information about their new health condition, nor being offered initial psychological support. Lack of perceived confidentiality about their condition by health professionals, associated risk behaviours, feelings of fear, and discrimination were main topics.
Conclusions: Perceived barriers for people living with HIV/AIDS may hinder early diagnosis and adhesion to treatment within the health system. Education of health professionals is key to develop supportive environments for diagnosed patients. Promotion of health services that these patients can access should be enhanced.