Evaluation of the performance of HIV/AIDS post test clubs in Mubende District - Uganda.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Post-test clubs were introduced in 1990 in Uganda following the enacting of the VCT policy, now HIV counselling and testing (HCT) policy. In Mubende District they were introduced in 2000 but since then, no evaluation has been carried out to establish their performance. No single district, but even the country at large has evaluation of the performance of these post test clubs been carried out. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the performance of HIV post test clubs SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: 1. To evaluate performance of PTCs based on set expectations 2. To compare the performance of health facility based post-test clubs and the community based post test clubs 3. To establish strategies so as to improve the performance of PTCs (In Mubende District). METHODOLOGY: A Health systems analysis model was used. The main data collecting tools were the checklists. These were used to get relevant information from the twenty-five (25) PTCs, which were answered or filled by a member of the executive committee or head of the health facility/department (for health facility PTCs). The collected data was entered into and coded in excel and analysed using SPSS computer software, version 2002. Focus group discussions were also held focusing on how to improve on the performance of PTCs. Data collected was grouped into themes and sub-themes and analysed manually. RESULTS: 80% (20/25) of the PTCs are not performing their expected roles. Only 24% (6/25) are keeping records of peer preventive and supportive counselling with 84% (21/25) keeping records of the previous minutes. 64% (16/25) keep records of new entrants and only 8% (2/25) for members who have absconded. 68% (17/25) of the PTCs have evidence of sharing latest HIV/AIDS related information. 44% (11/25) have active recreation services. Of the 11 only 32% (8/25) have music, dance and drama groups and other 16% (4/25) have video shows. Few PTCs have had trainings in the various skills. Only 24% (6/25) of the PTCs have some form of training in protection and preventive skills and 24% (6/25) in IGAs. Though PLHAs need a lot of care, only 12% (3/25 of the PTCs are providing adherence services. RECOMMENDATIONS: PTCs need support of whatever kind at all levels-national, district, MOH and community if they are to perform to their expectations.