Exploring Perceived Effects from Loss of PEPFAR Support for Outreach in Kenya and Uganda

Overview

Journal Global Health

Publisher Biomed Central

Specialties Health Services
Public Health

Date 2021 Jul 18

PMID 34273988

Citations 6

Authors

Mary Qiu

Ligia Paina

Daniela C Rodriguez

Jess A Wilhelm

Ezinne Eze-Ajoku

Alexandra Searle

Henry Zakumumpa

Freddie Ssengooba

Caroline Mackenzie

Sara Bennett

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Introduction: In 2015, the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief undertook policy shifts to increase efficiencies in its programming, including transitioning HIV/AIDS funding away from low burden areas. We examine the impact of these changes on HIV outreach in Kenya and Uganda.

Methods: Qualitative data collection was conducted as a part of a broader mixed-methods evaluation. Two rounds of facility-level case studies and national-level interviews were conducted in Kenya and Uganda, with health facility, sub-national and central Ministry of Health staff, HIV clients, and implementing partners.

Results: In both countries, the loss of outreach support affected community-based HIV/AIDS education, testing, peer support, and defaulter tracing.

Discussion: Loss of external support for outreach raises concerns for countries' ability to reach the 90-90-90 UNAIDS target, as key linkages between vulnerable communities and health systems can be adversely affected.

Conclusion: Development partners should consider how to mitigate potential consequences of transition policies to prevent negative effects at the community level.

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