Objectives: To identify the concerns and needs of women living with HIV/AIDS and to define the components of a women's HIV/AIDS social services program. Methods: Focus group interviews were conducted with female clients of a large AIDS social service organization in Los Angeles, California. A total of 210 female clients were contacted during recruitment. From the 52 women who initially agreed to participate, a total of 37 women actually attended the focus groups. The focus group questions examined a range of issues affecting women living with HIV/AIDS (e.g., HIV disclosure to children, parenting). Results: Women participating in the focus groups were primarily low-income with limited education and reported receiving some form of government assistance and health insurance. Prominent throughout the findings was that heterosexual women living with HIV/AIDS feel excluded from service organizations that primarily serve gay men. From the findings, five service areas were identified as important for women: 1)Health Information, 2)Mental Health Services, 3)Social Support, 4)Parenting 5)Future Plans.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to: 1. Describe major concerns and needs of women living with HIV/AIDS. 2. List primary components of a HIV/AIDS social services program for women living with HIV/AIDS. 3. Develop ways to outreach to women living with HIV/AIDS in the provision of AIDS services
Keywords: Women and HIV/AIDS, Service Delivery
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.