Marseille 2007
Marseille 2007
Abstract book
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Abstract #519  -  Whole Systems Assessment and Response (WSAR): A look at the integration of AIDS treatment into the South African Health Care System
Session:
  26.15: Posters B (Poster) on Tuesday   in  Chaired by
Authors:
  Presenting Author:   Mr Gavin George - HEARD, South Africa
 
  Additional Authors:   
Aim:
WSAR was developed in response to contemporary approaches to HIV/AIDS control which have been criticised for being fragmented and limited in scope, and is designed to promote a more holistic and synergised approach to the assessment and control of HIV/AIDS epidemics.
 
Method / Issue:
A conceptual model was used that not only links situational assessments to response development but explores the impacts that intervention programmes and the wider environmental context have on each other. The concept is being operationalised through a series of mixed-methods, rapid assessment studies of the selected HIV/AIDS intervention programmes and health systems in developing and transitional economies in Africa. The aim of the study in South Africa was to investigate the impacts of anti-retroviral (ART) scale-up on the health system focusing specifically on three key areas: health financing and expenditure, service provision and utilisation, and human resources for health.
 
Results / Comments:
The study showed that ART programmes at public health facilities in the Ilembi district of KwaZulu-Natal and the Winelands region in the Western Cape created pressure on existing services within the same facility in terms of finances and space, while targeted health personnel such as physicians, nurses, lab technicians and pharmacists, tend to be recruited from other units. Large numbers of patients with AIDS requiring treatment are resulting in human resource shortages and increased stress levels, shortage of space and a reduction of the quality of care provided to the patients.
 
Discussion:
The roll-out of ART in both the Ilembe district and the Cape Winelands region has experienced success, however, it is the obstacles that need urgent addressing before these programmes will be optimized and those who require ART have access to the health facilities and adequate care.
 
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