Summary

Program goals

Healthcare workers are at the heart of Kenya’s HIV response and yet they are vulnerable to HIV infection. Paradoxically, healthcare workers often have restricted access to treatment, care, and support services. While their profession places them in close proximity to those services, it also exposes them to heightened stigma when they test HIV positive, making them more reluctant to seek HIV services

Key program components

This program has mobilized healthcare workers from across the country to facilitate formation of a national network for HIV-positive healthcare workers where they can access ARVs and not be stigmatized.;From the original 49 members who helped launch the network, the National HIV/AIDS Health Workers Network has already grown to 300 people, although many of the new members are not yet ready to disclose their HIV status publicly. The network has also participated in several radio programs, including features on Radio Waumini (a religious station) in May 2008, KAS FM in December 2008, and Radio Kameme. The programs focused on the network’s launch; its mission, vision, and activities; and the need to reduce stigma and discrimination in the health sector including free ARVs.

A network representative also participated in the Joint AIDS Program Review, where she raised issues of stigma and discrimination in the health sector, stock outs of essential HIV medicines—particularly those for treating opportunistic infections and threats posed by multiple-drug-resistant TB, the scarcity of health workers, and the need for child-friendly HIV services. The groups most important accomplishment, however, may be its existence. For the first time, HIV-positive health workers have a place to turn to for support. The network has brought them hope and promises to bring them more in the future—hope that they, in turn, will pass on to their patients.