The Changing Landscape in Funding of Hiv/aids Program; Perspectives and Experiences of Caregivers of Pediatric Patients at Kisii Referral and Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Background: Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) secondary to Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remains one of the most serious public health challenges as it is associated with high rates of mortality and morbidity. The cost of care is enormous and most treatment services have been offered successfully through donor funding. However, a reduction in funding opportunities has been reported and this may affect the quality of caring for children living with HIV/AIDS. Objective: This study describes the experiences and perspectives of caregivers of pediatric patients with HIV/AIDS at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH). Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive design with a phenomenological approach was used to conduct a study at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, whereby data was collected to saturation levels using an in-depth interview on consenting participants. Purposive sampling technique was used to select potential participants from in-patient and Comprehensive care centers and an in-depth interview (IDIs) was conducted on those who met the inclusion criteria. The audio files for the IDIs were transcribed into a Microsoft text document then transferred into an R version 4.0.2 type of software by the researcher and thematic review was done. The field notes and interview transcripts were read and re-read for an understanding of the general impression of emerging themes, whereby a qualitative data analyst was engaged for assistance in the analysis, and findings were presented narratively. Findings: All the respondents asserted in one form or the other that the transition from a robust donor funding of HIV/AIDS regime to a reduced one had significant challenges. The reduction of funds had reduced the frequency of drugs disbursement from 6 months to just two weeks supply and nutritional supplement programs being terminated. Some caregivers had tried to cope by farming, table banking, and casual laboring. Conclusion: The study showed that a significant transition challenge occasioned by reduced donor funding of HIV/AIDs programs led to compromised care of children living with HIV and increased caregivers’ expenditure exacerbating the negative experiences that caregivers have with children post-funding. However, it is a reality to them and as a result some have resorted alternatives for survival though with straining. Recommendations: A multi-sectoral collaboration of local facilities, non-governmental organizations, and the county health facilities to come up with policies for resource mobilizations to aid in funding the HIV Programs. The government through its non-governmental agency to emphasizes empowerment programs that would help caregivers of children with HIV/AIDS to learn to be independent.