PURPOSE

Stigma and discrimination (SAD) remains a major challenge facing HIV/AIDs management in most countries of sub-Saharan Africa. Expert clients can potentially play a role in the fight against SAD. Our study explored the experiences and the role of expert clients in reducing SAD among people living with HIV/AIDs enrolled on care in health facilities in Western Uganda.

PARTICIPANTS AND MATERIALS

We conducted a phenomenological qualitative study among (12) twelve purposively selected expert clients at four health facilities in Sheema district, Western Uganda. In-depth interviews were conducted using an interview guide. Data were transcribed verbatim, translated to English, manually coded and analysed manually by thematic content.

RESULTS

Four themes emerged describing the experiences of expert clients in reducing HIV/AIDs SAD; 1) Feeling of inner satisfaction, 2) Challenging work environment, 3) Acquisition of skills and 4) Disclosure dilemma. The roles of expert clients in reducing HIV-related SAD included 1) Facilitating status disclosure, 2) Identifying and helping clients with stigma/discrimination, 3) Linking patients to the health care system and 4) Promotion of positive living.

CONCLUSION

Expert clients had numerous experiences and play a key role in the fight against SAD. Expert clients should be included as one of the stakeholders in the efforts to reduce or eradicate SAD in the management of HIV/AIDs.