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Present disparities in access to HIV services among KPs are significant. Stigma and discrimination, violence, disciplinary harassment by police and social environments are major issues which fuel increased HIV vulnerability among KPs, thus availability, access, and uptake of HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support for MSM, sex workers and their clients are limited.
In response to the problem both local and international NGOs collaborated in initiating and implementing a responsive programme for KPs in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. PASADA, PSI and the Government of Tanzania implement a programme with a focus on providing care and treatment services to MSM and FSWs in Dar Es Salaam. A descriptive qualitative study using in depth interviews and focus group discussions were employed. Seven KPs (Four MSM, three FSWs) were enrolled for in depth interviews and one FGD conducted with peers of KPs. Three service providers were recruited for in-depth interviews from PASADA clinic centre.
We used Andersen’s Behavioral Models for vulnerable populations and a framework for Monitoring and Evaluation for marginalized populations as a framework to interpret on the perceptions and experiences on health seeking and influences on the provision of services by health providers for KPs
The results highlight on the concerns of service providers lack of skills and low motivation related to the provision of services to KPs. KPs demonstrated awareness and knowledge of the comprehensive responsive services and issues which hinder accessibility. There was general unawareness of Hepatitis B and C, vaccination and appropriate prevention information among the group.
The qualitative study underscores the significance of information on both HIV risks and acceptable, effective HIV prevention options for MSM and FSWs. Learning and skills development should be available to the wider KPs community. Drop-centre interventions may be excellence sites to address health problems experienced by MSM and FSWs. |
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