A strategic framework for the increase of voluntary HIV counseling and testing among primary school teachers in South-west Ethiopia

5^th International Conference on HIV/AIDS, STDs and STIs

November 13-14, 2017 Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Abamecha B

Addis State University, Ababa, Ethiopia

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J AIDS Clin Res

Abstract :

Voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) is a key entry point for prevention, care and support. However, available evidence indicated the low uptake among primary school teachers in Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study design using quantitative and qualitative data collection methods was conducted to explore and describe factors influencing VCT uptake and consequently designed strategic framework for the increase of VCT uptake. Simple random sampling was used to select nine of the 18 words as and systematic random sampling was used to reach to 630 sample size in phase one. In phase two, ten VCT providers and ten primary school teachers were selected using information saturation as a cut point. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS window version (22.0), where demographic and socio-cultural factors were summarized using distribution statics. Thematic analysis was used for qualitative data analysis. The study findings were used to design strategic framework in phase three. The study revealed low VCT uptake (N=285, 47.3%). The study also found, long waiting time, skills of providers, VCT site, stigma, privacy and confidentiality as barriers for VCT uptake. Perceived risk of HIV/AIDS (p=0.009; AOR=1.69 (1.14-2.50), perceived benefits of VCT (p=0.003; AOR=2.65(1.39-5.02) and educational background (p=0.009; AOR= 1.69 (1.14-2.50) were significantly associated with VCT uptake. There is need to improve awareness of primary school teachers advocate for VCT uptake, reduce stigma and create conducive environment to increase of VCT uptake