Our presentation explores how different types of families use the formal and informal service networks to ensure their quality of living. Research has suggested that women shoulder most of the caretaking burdens in a family. Therefore, we would like to test whether the presence of a female adult in the household will influence the amount of caregiving received and given by the HIV-positive woman. Furthermore, it seems that different types of households, for example, living with a partner or young children, determines the nature of need and the resources for resolving service problems which may arise.
Using data from the CHAIN study, a longitudinal study of 967 HIV-positive persons in New York City, we focus solely on households which include HIV-positive women. Our typology of households was based on presence or absence of children(less than eighteen), partner and other female adults. We created the following six categories: 1. living alone 2. with children 3. with a male partner 4. with a male partner and children 5. with children and at least one female adult
Our analysis will focus on the relationship between types of families and the need, access and utilization of the health and social services system. Specifically, we will look at six major service areas, appropriate medical care, alcohol and drug treatment services, mental health services, housing services, financial services, and child care services. The findings will show that policy and social programs must differentiate between different types of living arrangements among HIV-infected and affected persons.
Learning Objectives: During this session, presenters will discuss how diverse types of families influence HIV-positive women's need, access and utilization of health and social services. The presentation will give the audience the opportunity to explore how formal and informal sources of support are used by different types of households infected and/or affected by HIV. The session will also indicate to what extent HIV-related policy is gender-blind, and does not take into account the fact that overwhelmingly HIV-positive women, as opposed to men, are the ones who live and care for young children
Keywords: Access and Services, HIV/AIDS
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.