CAPACITY AND DEMAND FOR HIV VIRAL LOAD TESTING FOR HIV/AIDS OUTPATIENTS AT SONG LO DISTRICT HEALTH CENTER, 2024
Main Article Content
Abstract
Viral load testing is routinely indicated for monitoring during ARV treatment. Objective: To describe the current status of capacity and demand for HIV viral load testing for HIV/AIDS outpatients at Song Lo District Health Center, Vinh Phuc Province, in 2022 – 2023. Research Method: The study employed observation, in-depth interviews with clinical doctors, staff responsible for sample transfer, and data recording from reports, logbooks, and other records. Information was compiled, evaluated, and analyzed to propose solutions for implementing HIV viral load testing. Records were kept at the Laboratory Department from January 2023 to June 2024. Interviews were conducted with representatives, including 10 patients, 8 clinical doctors, 3 sample transfer staff, 2 laboratory staff, the head of the laboratory, and the director of the health center. Results: The health center basically meets the physical infrastructure requirements; however, there is a shortage of trained personnel, lack of necessary analytical systems, and an absence of budgeted supplies and consumables. Despite the high demand for viral load testing at the center, all interviewees, including department leaders, clinical doctors, laboratory staff, sample transfer staff, and patients, expressed a strong desire for the implementation of HIV viral load testing at the facility. Conclusion: Implementing HIV viral load testing is the demand of people living with HIV, and the center has capacity to implement this.
Article Details
Keywords
Realtime PCR - HIV, testing, ARV
References
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