Background: Clients receive services through a network of nine case management sites, which function as hubs in local service networks. Sites provide access in a culturally appropriate manner. Currently 356 clients receive some level of care, and 110 individuals have completed baseline evaluations. This study presents preliminary results of an analysis of client quality of life indicators.
Method: Data constitute baseline cross-sectional information collected through the use of the 21-item Medical Outcomes Study instrument. Data are self-report from 110 clients. Aggregate physical and mental health scores are reported, in addition to domain scores for general health, physical functioning, physical role functions, emotional role functions, social functioning, bodily pain, anxiety / depression, and vitality.
Results: Client responses illustrate compromised quality of life along all measured dimensions. Domain proportions reflecting lower functional levels range from 30% to nearly 70%. These data are baseline measures against which follow-up data will be contrasted to evaluate the effectiveness of the programs.
Conclusions: These data offer a profile of the client population and identify a spectrum of quality of life needs. Both new clients and those already receiving services experience difficulties maintaining a higher quality of life. Case management programs need to focus on these issues, improving access to services and increasing the participation of clients in those services.
Learning Objectives: Learning Objectives: After attendance at this presentation, participants will: 1. Have increased their knowledge about quality of life issues among Native Americans with HIV/AIDS; 2. Understand research and measurement issues involved with quality of life evaluations of Native Americans with HIV/AIDS; 3. Identify gaps in services provided to Native Americans with HIV/AIDS; and 4. Evaluate service delivery models that address quality of life among Native American and other minority populations
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Quality of Life
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.