Evaluation of the HIV/AIDS Care Model of the Health Service Network in Buntharik District, Ubon Ratchathani Province

Abstract

          The care for HIV/AIDS patients should be organized in a holistic manner covering all dimensions which include physical, mental, economic and social aspects. Assessing the status of the current care system is essential for improving the comprehensiveness, the effectiveness and the efficiency of the program. In this regard, it is useful to conduct an assessment of the HIV/AIDS care system in Buntharik District of where the health service network has been operated for a long time covering entire community. The objective of this study was to assess the care system; and the participants were 52 patients, care givers and members of relevant stake holders. Data were collected by using a set of self-administered questionnaire and through in-depth interviews during the study period from October 2016 to September 2017; and were analyzed by frequency distribution, percentage, mean, standard deviation and content analysis.           It was found that the care model was carried out in a holistic approach including physical, mental, economic and social dimensions. The operational process was comprised of (1), having a multidisciplinary team with a clear structure and division of responsibilities, (2) arrangement of one-stop service for patients, (3) a system consisted of activities to promote self-care and social support,(4) comprehensiveness of the care in 4 dimensions: promotion, prevention, treatment and rehabilitation, (5) promotion and availability of alternative care, (6) social support for patients and caregivers, (8) well developed data management system, and (8) satisfaction assessment. Based the evaluation, there was a high level of satisfaction and attitude among the participants. Therefore, the multidisciplinary team should be supported to take care of physical and mental care operations that link all stakeholders in the community. In addition, local administrative organizations should be responsible for continuing improvement of economic and social components of the case system.