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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21088/ijpm.2321.5917.5217.5

Abstract

Recognizing the need for augmenting the private sector’s response to HIV/AIDS, an initiative was started in the southern state of India. A programmatic evaluation of Andhra Pradesh AIDS Consortium (APAIDSCON), examining its impact on HIV/AIDS care and treatment service delivery was undertaken. The APAIDSCON program evaluation, based on U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s evaluation protocols, was conducted in 20132014 at four randomly selected private medical colleges. Mixed method approach was used, including focus group discussions, indepth interviews, and review of program monitoring data, to ascertain impact on HIV/AIDS care and treatment service delivery. Respondents, randomly selected, included 115 clients accessing HIV testing and counseling and 115 HIVpositive inpatient clients. Patient satisfaction was assessed through descriptive analysis of median and mode scores, followed by nonparametric tests. Findings indicate increased HIV/AIDS service utilization at evaluation sites. A total of 47,260 clients availed HIV testing at evaluation sites during April 2008March 2011. Significant increase was noted in the proportion of highrisk group individuals being tested (Z score 10.68; p< 0.01) and the proportions of HIVpositive outpatients (Z score 2.29; p <0.02) and inpatients (Z score 3.41; p <0.01). Stipulated standards for HIV treatment and care were adhered to. 118 positive pregnant women had institutional delivery; and 93.3 percent (n=10) of the women and 95% (n=112) children received Nevirapine. The overall patient satisfaction was high. Participation of private medical providers and a board basket of services may enhance institutional performance and improve access to HIV care and treatment services.

Keywords: Partnership; PPP; National AIDS Control Programme; India; Stigma and Discrimination. 

Corresponding Author : Ramesh Reddy Allam, Associate Project Director, Public Health Division, SHARE India, Mediciti Institute of Health Sciences Campus, Ghanpur, Medchal District, Telangana State 501401, India.