To browse Academia. Refer to the Methods section for further details. Patient consent for publication Not required. Provenance and peer review Not commissioned; externally peer reviewed. We collected demographic and HIV-related behavioral data through audio computer-assisted self-administered interviews. Laboratory testing included biomarkers for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Overall HIV prevalence was To achieve HIV epidemic control, it is critical that key populations have access to HIV care services, which include testing, treatment and retention in care and maintaining undetectable viral load. Despite this, key population groups such as MSM are underserved. The concealed nature of many key populations, stigma and discrimination and criminalisation of their behaviour make it difficult to track various steps along the HIV care continuum UNAIDS b The top five countries being Swaziland Background: Key populations such as men who have sex with men are disproportionately affected by human immunodeficiency virus HIV , yet they are underserved.
This vulnerable group also faces stigma and discrimination when utilising the healthcare services. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of men who have sex with men MSM as they accessed HIV care services in healthcare settings in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Setting: The study setting was healthcare facilities state and private owned in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, that offer HIV care services. Data were gathered by using in-depth individual interviews that were audio recorded.
Data saturation determined sample size. Data were transcribed verbatim and later analysed thematically. Results: The study revealed that counselling given to MSM was generalised and not individualised. Some clients faced stigma and discrimination after disclosure.
Peer and family support were important in the journey to access HIV care services. This calls for sensitisation and competency clinical training of service providers so that the diverse needs of MSM are met.
