The Behavior of Health Professionals in Dealing with People Living with HIV (Stigma and Discontinuation of Treatment) -A Case Study in Oran Town (Algeria)-

Abstract

     The stigmatization of people living with HIV AIDS has always been seen as a recurring issue. But coming from the health professionals of the care structures, this can be an obstacle for a good care. The stigmatization of PLHIV within health structures in Algeria raises several questions, namely: What care do people living with HIV / AIDS have? Are they treated like any other person in these departments? What are the consequences of this stigma on these people and on the continuity of care? To answer these questions, a qualitative survey was conducted by a multidisciplinary team at Oran University Hospital (CHU) between 2014 and 2015 through 25 semi-structured interviews and continuous observation with healthcare professionals, health and people living with HIV. The survey collected data on the behavior of health professionals towards PLWHIV and their effects on the care of these people. These data have shown the existence of behaviors of discrimination and stigmatization of certain health professionals. The care of these people is marked by a discontinuity of care following the behavior of professionals. We observed that women are most affected than men.