Provider perspectives on the delivery of HIV education and prevention in rural Sierra Leone, West Africa

Issues: Although HIV education structures have existed for decades globally, scant information is available about the epidemic in Sierra Leone, West Africa. While much information has been disseminated regarding the epidemic in rural areas of other countries, little information is available regarding HIV education in rural Sierra Leone. In this context, provider perspectives regarding HIV education remain less researched. Description: The Bele Uman Project was conceptualized as a multifaceted project that facilitates understanding of socio-ecological contributing factors that lead to maternal morbidity and mortality. This includes the HIV epidemic as it intersects with maternal health issues in Sierra Leone. Bele Uman intended this initiative to examine, in a preliminary fashion, provider perspectives of factors that impact HIV education efforts in rural Sierra Leone. Methods: Qualitative methods were used to gather data from 13 HIV providers who serve rural districts of Sierra Leone. Lessons Learned: Findings suggest two primary themes: systemic lack of education/training for the providers, and provider self-stigma regarding their ability to effectively communicate prevention/education messages, HIV serostatus, and follow-up counseling. Recommendations: The data gathered illustrates the need for substantial HIV training to be offered to the healthcare providers. Although there is a commonly health belief that training is necessary in terms of prenatal care, these results suggest that there is an even greater need in regards to HIV training as it affects maternal health. In addition, future programs and initiatives must aim to improve the health literacy of the rural communities using culturally appropriate methods and messages.