A qualitative study of the perspectives of Sub-Saharan African migrant women with HIV/AIDS and their caregivers on treatment and care in Belgium

Abstract

HIV treatment may be less effective as a prevention option when HIV patients especially migrants encounter difficulties in accessing treatment and care even in resource-rich settings. This paper explores perspectives of HIV-infected Sub-Saharan African (SSA) migrant women and their caregivers on HIV treatment/care in Belgium. We conducted a qualitative study between April 2013 and December 2014. We included HIV-infected SSA migrant women and their caregivers providing treatment and care in a university teaching hospital in Belgium. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis. A total of 44 patients and eight HIV healthcare providers were included in the study. All participants acknowledged the availability and accessibility to free treatment that contributes to long-term survival if treatment is adhered to. Women with uncertain immigration status and unstable housing reported difficulties in obtaining treatment/care and the fear of discontinuity if deported to their country of origin. Free, available and accessible healthcare remains paramount and makes living with HIV/AIDS tolerable despite the chronic nature and seriousness of the disease. HIV/AIDS SSA women believe that adhering to antiretroviral therapy increases longevity; greatly improve quality of health and restores self-esteem. Barriers to obtain care for the undocumented may have dire consequences on public health.

Keywords

• african migrant women
• hiv/aids
• hiv treatment/care
• belgium