Barriers and facilitators of HIV treatment services among men who have sex with men during COVID-19 lockdown

Abstract

Background: The provision of HIV treatment services was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown measures, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM), a population disproportionately affected by HIV.

Objectives: To explore the service providers’ perspectives on the barriers and facilitators of the HIV treatment services during the COVID-19 lockdown in Capricorn District, Limpopo province.

Method: The study followed an exploratory design and was conducted in Capricorn District in Limpopo province. A purposive sample of 10 HIV treatment service providers were included in the study. An interview guide was developed using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) domains and associated constructs. The transcribed qualitative data were captured and analysed on Atlas.ti version 24.

Results: The barriers included fear of COVID-19 transmission, movement restrictions during the initial phase of the lockdown period, target-driven performance pressure, lack of mobile clinics, and understaffing. The facilitators included teamwork among the various stakeholders in the programme, tailoring strategies to reach more MSM, partnerships and connections with the Department of Health and other relevant organisations.

Conclusion: The study revealed that the tailoring of the MSM programme facilitated access to HIV treatment services during COVID-19.

What this study adds: This study adds insights into the barriers and facilitators of providing HIV treatment services among MSM. It emphasises the importance of programme adaptability and partnerships for a multisectoral effort for sustainable HIV services under conditions similar to the COVID-19 lockdown.