Masters Degrees (African Centre for HIV/AIDS Management)

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Browsing Masters Degrees (African Centre for HIV/AIDS Management) by Subject "Adherence counselling -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape"

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    A study of the role of the patient advocate as ‘a social support structure’, in HIV/AIDS medication adherence, in Dimbaza and Zwelitsha Clinics in the Province of the Eastern Cape, South Africa
    (Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2011-03) Kamana, Nomfundo Lucy; Eva, Gary; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences. Dept. of Industrial Psychology. Africa Centre for HIV/AIDS Management.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The purpose of the study was to examine the impact of the community adherence counsellors or patient advocates (PAs) on antiretroviral medication adherence as a form of social support. In the battle against HIV/AIDS patient advocates have been used to do basic psychosocial assessment and to document the patients' social issues, focusing on factors which might have an impact on the patients' adherence. This is to evaluate issues that might impact on long-term adherence. In many cases it may be necessary to do a home visit. The research sought to identify the existing social support structures available in the clinic and the patients' perceptions of such support. It is also important to identify whether there are any discrepancies on the social support given, based on the patients' perceptions. The study sample included Xhosa and English speaking individuals over the age of 18 years receiving treatment for HIV/AIDS. The study participants were recruited at two out-patients settings in Dimbaza and Zwelitsha, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. A descriptive, exploratory, cross sectional design was utilized to explore the nature of the relationship among social support and other selected variables including socio-demographic variables and quality of life. Participants reported being fairly satisfied with the quality of support they received. Emotional support and often instrumental support were most desired. The support they received helps people with HIV/AIDS to manage uncertainty. The provision of instrumental support facilitated skills development. Adherence counselling tasks can be shifted to lay cadres like patient advocates without compromising the quality of counselling. Patient advocacy within the community is necessary to improve retention of clients on antiretroviral therapy.