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Abstract
Provision of sexual health services by NGOs to most at risk populations in Andhra Pradesh - the frontiers prevention programme 2003-2007
A. Fakoya1, C. De Zoysa2, S. McPherson1, F. Samuels3, P. Srikar2, P. Prabhakar2, P. Chikukwa1, S. Ghosh1, FPP Evaluation Study Group
Background: Strategies to reduce HIV prevalence includes the control of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in groups most at risk of acquiring HIV including Sex Workers (SW) and Men who have sex with Men (MSM). These Key population groups were targeted across the state of Andhra Pradesh in a partnership with the state AIDS control council (APSACS) and local NGOs with international technical assistance.
Methods: Sexual health interventions were provided by local NGOs across 14 states. These included: establishment of user friendly, branded ‘Mythri clinics’; provision of safe drop-in spaces; training of peer outreach workers (ORW) to identify KPs, provide health information, condoms and refer to clinic and the onward referral for HIV testing and further services.Clinical data was collected from 65 Mythri clinics, April 04- Dec 06. A qualitative survey was conducted with SW and MSM in a subset of 8 sites.
Results: 23 NGOs provided services in 13 districts in AP. The NGOs covered 74 sites with a total of 352 Peer Outreach Workers + 174 peer educators. 51 Static clinics + 9 Mobile clinics were put in place (164 clinical staff) and 65 Drop-in centres are operational.
A total of 79,713 clients have been seen: 33% self referred and 67% referred by ORWs. 47% were FSW, 28% MSM, and 24% PLHA. PLHA were more likely to be self referred or be referred from external agencies. 40% of the total has had syndromic treatment for STIs, and 15% asymptomatic periodic treatment. This rises to 50% and 25% when PLHA are excluded.The qualitative survey highlights the importance of Mythri clinics in providing a quality service within a user friendly and safe environment.
Conclusion: NGOs can provide high quality prevention and clinical services at scale. The success of this model depends on strong partnerships and co-ordination with government and other key actors across the state.
AIDS 2008 - XVII International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
CDC0376
Suggested Citation
"A.Fakoya, et al.
Provision of sexual health services by NGOs to most at risk populations in Andhra Pradesh - the frontiers prevention programme 2003-2007.
:
AIDS 2008 - XVII International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
CDC0376"
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