Experiences with an integrative approach to treating HIV/AIDS in East Africa

HIV/AIDS is a multifaceted condition affecting the whole person and family, which requires an individualized and holistic approach, as defined by Person Centered Health Care. In East Africa, Homoeopathy for Health in Africa offers patients an integrative, holistic method to supplement standard medical treatment and mitigate the side effects of anti-retroviral (ARV) drugs that often interfere with patient adherence to treatment and lead to drug resistance. Patients who have homoeopathy treatment as a supplement to ARVs report amelioration of side effect symptoms, increased energy and enhanced well-being, allowing them to work and care for their families. Results of an audit give demographic information. AIDS medical practitioners support homoeopathy, an approved form of medicine in Tanzania. Cases are presented that demonstrate the challenges and successes of treating HIV/AIDS patients in East Africa.