The role of community home based care in delivery of HIV/AIDS services in Chake Chake District

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: In 1983, Tanzania had three cases diagnosis and reported of HIV/AIDS in Kagera region, and by 1986 all regions had reported of Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases and continued spread since. Different approaches of service delivery against HIV have been used. Currently Community Home Based Care (CHBC) services have been provided in all 11 districts of Zanzibar. Since, the beginning of using CHBC in Zanzibar, less is known on its roles, strengths and challenges attached to CHBC. Therefore, this study intends to fill that existing gap. Objective of the study: To assess the roles of the CHBC in delivery HIV/AIDS services, strengths and the challenges faced on delivery these services. Materials and Methods: The descriptive cross-sectional design was used with both qualitative and quantitative methods. In depth interview was used in qualitative data collection while questionnaire was used in quantitative data collection. Purposively sampling technique was used on qualitative part, while systematic random sampling was used on quantitative part. Results: The study found that provision of health education, psychosocial support, client monitoring and follow up, identification and referral as significance services delivered by CBHC. Despite its implementation, the study found challenges facing CHBC which include shortage of community health workers, lack of privacy and confidentiality, poor perception and stigma. Conclusion: T he study highlights the essential services provided by Community Home Based Care (CHBC) in the Chake Chake district, including health education, psychosocial support. The successful implementation of these services has been bolstered by the collaborative efforts of NGOs, government support. However, significant challenges remain, such as a shortage of communit y health workers, and persistent stigma that affects client perceptions of the program