In East Africa medical profession has not only flourished in recent decades but is also experiencing major challenges on two fronts: “economic constraints” and “disease entity” of HIV/AIDS. HIV/AIDS presents major challenges profession in a variety of ways. Since first cases of HIV were diagnosed in East Africa in early 1980s, there has been a steady rise in HIV/AIDS patients in the hospitals. We currently estimate about 50 to 60% of patients in hospitals have HIV related illnesses. Although we encourage testing and disclosure, we believe that majority of patients are not aware of their sero-status. With this overwhelming disease burden we wish to explore the culture of medicine and moral dilemmas of disclosure and their effects on medical training and practice.
From January to February 1999 we conducted a pilot study of selected key informants in medical profession including 42 faculty physicians, 26 residents and medical students in various medical fields. The study purpose was to generate information to assist in designing a large study, looking into issues of medical culture and the moral dilemmas of disclosure for purpose of informing policy.
Study site: Muhimbili Medical Center, Mikocheni and Kenyata National Hospitals in East Africa. This paper discusses major statements emerging from interviews viz:- Informed consent within the context of pre-test counseling and the difficulties involved and Disclosure of HIV positive results to patients and significant others and difficulties involved in the process. Paper concludes by posing possible research questions based from findings, which provide room for further studies.
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: , 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.