Antigua and Barbuda Caribbean Region HIV and AIDS Service Provision Assessment Survey 2005

Author(s): MEASURE Evaluation, St. George's University

Year: 2007

Abstract:

The HIV and AIDS Service Provision Assessment (HSPA) was developed to assess the quality and capacity of HIV- and AIDS-related services in high prevalent situations. However, the findings of the Eastern Caribbean HSPA need to be interpreted within a low prevalence context. Small islands with few facilities may not require all of the HIV and AIDS-related services to be at full capacity in every facility. Nevertheless, an efficient system to identify, counsel, and treat those who are HIV positive and to prevent the spread of the virus requires a high-quality HIV testing and counseling system, accessible antiretroviral therapy (ART), treatment services for opportunistic infections (OIs), and a prevention strategy that reaches the vulnerable and at-risk populations. A solid recordkeeping and reporting system is essential for monitoring the surveillance of the epidemic and the capacity of the health system to respond. No matter what level health planners decide is best for the country, each service should be provided at the highest quality possible. The results of the 2006 Antigua and Barbuda HSPA provide baseline information for decision-making on how and where to scale up or strengthen HIV- and AIDS-related services. Focusing on the formal public health sector in Antigua and Barbuda, the HSPA findings provide information on both basic and advanced-level HIV and AIDS services and the availability of record-keeping systems for monitoring HIV and AIDS care and support.