EVALUATION OF SUPPORT SERVICES NEEDED FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV (PLWH) ATTENDING RETRO CLINIC, TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL AND ART PLUS CENTER, KARNATAKA, INDIA

Introduction: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) that reasons Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) has become one of the world’s most alarming health-related problem. In developing countries like India AIDS have not only impact on physical health but also have retarding impact on Social and Psychological status of patients. People living with HIV/AIDS(PLWHA) may lose career, income, and even friends and family members as significant resources of assistance and support. The quality and organization of medical care for HIV-infected patients in any setting inevitably reflect the functioning of the health services in general.Aim: To evaluate support services needed for people living with HIV(PLWH) using validate questionnaire.Methodology: Validated survey questionnaire was used to evaluate the support services needed for HIV positive patients at Retro Clinic at Kasturba Hospital, (RCKH) Manipal and ART Plus center Udupi( ARTPCU ). We used both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, including questionnaires and interviews of 120 patients receiving ART.Result: A total of 120 HIV patients were enrolled in the study, we found that 102(85.0%) got tested for HIV on Doctor’s suggestion while 18(15%) got tested by their own will. In RCKH (87.0%) waiting time was about 30-60 minutes while in ARTPCU (92.4%) it was less than 30 minutes. Most of the patients at either of the centers received counseling (76.7%) and were satisfied (94.2%). Economic support was available in ARTPCU but not in RCKH. Majority (56.7%) of the patients were on HAART since 1-5 years while only four (3.3%) were under one year of HAART. 30(55.6%) and 23 (24.8%) patients from RCKH and ARTPCU center respectively had their performance capacity affected and most of them (86.8%) reported tiredness. Forgetfulness and stigma (44.4% each) and cost (1.9%) were the reasons for the dose skipped and therapy break.Conclusion: There was no significant difference in the patient satisfaction at both the centers. Services provided at both of the centers were comparatively same, except for the extra facility of comorbid treatment in RCKH and economic support, free drug distribution and consultation in ARTCU.