HIV/AIDS Related Discrimination in Health Care Service: a Cross-sectional Study in Gejiu City, Yunnan Province

Objective To investigate discrimination against people living with HIV (PLWH) and its impacts. Methods Forty people who were either HIV positive (7/40) or had high risk behavior (33/40) were interviewed. Focus group discussion was held in the interview with people who were suspected to be infected with HIV, and in-depth interview was conducted in the survey of HIV positive persons whose privacy was strictly protected to ensure the confidentiality of the collected information. Results It was identified that six forms of discrimination against people living with HIV occurred in health care service in Gejiu, including speaking to patients in an insulting manner, refusing to provide health care service, delaying treatment, treating differently, uncovering patients' privacy, and over-protecting themselves against patients. Discrimination against people living with HIV greatly affected their health conditions. Conclusions Discrimination against people living with HIV in health service has negative impact on their physical and mental health.