Perceptions about Hiv Counseling and Testing Services in the Kassena-Nankana East and West Districts

Abstract

Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) testing and counseling is a precarious and vital gateway to HIV prevention and treatment. Ghana has a policy of free or subsidized HIV testing and counseling services. However the utilization of the HIV testing services remains generally low. This study assessed community perceptions and factors influencing HIV testing and counseling services in the Kassena-Nankana East and West Districts of Northern Ghana. Methodology: This was an exploratory study that employed a qualitative research approach. Qualitative data collection methods such as Focus Group Discussions and In-depth Interviews were used to gather primary data. Purposive sampling technique was used to select study participants for the interviews. The study population was community members and health care providers. The interviews were tape recorded with the consent of participants. The interviews were transcribed and coded using QSR Nvivo 12 software for thematic content analysis. Results: Generally, the study revealed high level of knowledge on HIV and AIDS. In addition, knowledge on the mode of HIV transmission was quite high. The results also showed high knowledge on HIV testing and counseling services. The study highlighted major factors such as lack of awareness, stigmatization and discrimination against HIV positive patients, lack of confidentiality, unavailability of materials such as testing kits and unethical conduct of some health workers to have accounted for low uptake of HIV testing and counseling services in the study area. Conclusion: Based on the interpretation of the data, key factors such as lack of awareness, lack of confidentiality, stigmatization, unavailability of material and unethical conduct of some health workers affected HIV testing and counseling services.