An investigation into the stigmatization of HIV-positive clients at clinics in the Leribe district

Abstract

A quantitative approach was used to investigate the stigmatization of HIV positive clients in the Leribe District of Lesotho. The study population included 5200 HIV positive patients who enrolled for ARV in government clinics. A randomly selected sample of 520 clients responded through a questionnaire and interviews. The statistical package (STATA version 9) was used to analyze data. The objectives of the study were to explore the type and level of stigmatization of HIV-positive clients and to describe ways in which health workers in the PHC can reduce the stigmatization of HIV-positive clients at the clinics. The findings revealed that types of stigmatization included separation, isolation, labeling and discrimination. Ways to reduce the stigma within a community based primary health care facility included educating people living with HIV on how to protect themselves from multiple infection, providing effective counselling to clients and families maintaining confidentiality, and using change strategies to change attitudes of health care providers. The integration of HIV-related activities is a strong recommendation and the importance of the consistent availability of ARV treatment was emphasized.