TB patients' perspectives on integrated TB/HIV services in South Africa

Trop Doct. 2006 Jul;36(3):173-5. doi: 10.1258/004947506777978226.

Abstract

There are few data describing patients' attitudes towards the integration of antiretroviral therapy for HIV-infected patients into existing TB services. We investigated this issue among patients receiving TB treatment at a primary care facility in Cape Town, South Africa. Of 85 patients interviewed, the vast majority (92%, n = 78) stated they would be willing to attend an integrated TB/HIV service; perceived stigmatization of TB and HIV was a significant predictor of negative attitudes towards a combined TB/HIV programme (adjusted odds ratio, 19.90, P = 0.02). While integrated TB/HIV services appear generally acceptable in this setting, continuing efforts to combat stigmatization are necessary to ensure maximum uptake.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Anti-HIV Agents / therapeutic use
  • Antitubercular Agents / therapeutic use
  • Delivery of Health Care, Integrated*
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy*
  • HIV Infections / psychology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care
  • Patient Satisfaction*
  • Primary Health Care / organization & administration*
  • South Africa
  • Stereotyping
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Tuberculosis / drug therapy*
  • Tuberculosis / psychology

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents
  • Antitubercular Agents