Scaling Up HIV Treatment in Zambia Using Task-Shifting
Author Information
Author(s): Morris Mary B, Chapula Bushimbwa Tambatamba, Chi Benjamin H, Mwango Albert, Chi Harmony F, Mwanza Joyce, Manda Handson, Bolton Carolyn, Pankratz Debra S, Stringer Jeffrey S A, Reid Stewart E
Primary Institution: Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia; Lusaka, Zambia
Hypothesis
Can task-shifting effectively address the human resource crisis in HIV treatment services in Zambia?
Conclusion
Task-shifting can expand HIV treatment services in Zambia without compromising clinical care quality.
Supporting Evidence
- From 2005 to 2007, 516 health providers were trained in adult HIV treatment.
- On-going quality assessment showed improvement in clinical care quality indicators.
- The task-shifting strategy was designed to address health care worker needs.
Takeaway
This study shows that by training less specialized health workers to take on more responsibilities, we can help more people get the HIV treatment they need.
Methodology
The study implemented a task-shifting program that included training, mentorship, and continuous quality assurance for health providers in Lusaka.
Limitations
The study could not perform a formal effectiveness analysis due to methodological challenges.
Participant Demographics
Health providers and community-based workers in Lusaka, Zambia.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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