Abstract
BackgroundKey populations such as men who have sex with men are disproportionately affected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), yet they are underserved. This vulnerable group also faces stigma and discrimination when utilising the healthcare services. However, to achieve the HIV epidemic control, it is important for them to have access to HIV care services.AimThe aim of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of men who have sex with men (MSM) as they accessed HIV care services in healthcare settings in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.SettingThe study setting was healthcare facilities (state and private owned) in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, that offer HIV care services.MethodsThe study used a descriptive phenomenological design targeting self-identified MSM living with HIV. Data were gathered by using in-depth individual interviews that were audio recorded. Data saturation determined sample size. Data were transcribed verbatim and later analysed thematically.ResultsThe study revealed that counselling given to MSM was generalised and not individualised. Some clients faced stigma and discrimination after disclosure. Peer and family support were important in the journey to access HIV care services.ConclusionAn enabling environment was not provided for MSM clients to access HIV care services in the majority of health facilities. This calls for sensitisation and competency clinical training of service providers so that the diverse needs of MSM are met. Peer and family support for MSM needs to be strengthened.
Highlights
Key populations are disproportionately affected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) but under-represented in HIV testing and treatment programmes (World Health Organization [WHO] 2017:15)
In spite of the fact that key populations constitute a small proportion of the general population globally, statistics indicate that in 2018, more than half (54%) of the new infections were from key populations and their partners (UNAIDS 2019a)
The researchers were interested in understanding the meaning of the experiences of HIV-positive MSM as they access HIV care services
Summary
Key populations are disproportionately affected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) but under-represented in HIV testing and treatment programmes (World Health Organization [WHO] 2017:15). The concealed nature of many key populations, stigma and discrimination and criminalisation of their behaviour make it difficult to track various steps along the HIV care continuum (UNAIDS 2019b:6–7). Key populations such as men who have sex with men are disproportionately affected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), yet they are underserved. This vulnerable group faces stigma and discrimination when utilising the healthcare services. To achieve the HIV epidemic control, it is important for them to have access to HIV care services
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