People with disabilities decry of discrimination and stigma in accessing HIV and sexual services

HIV positive persons when they received a donation of foodstuffs they say since COVID-19 started they have had problems receiving drugs.[Wilberforce Okwiri] People with disabilities in Kenya face widespread discrimination when seeking HIV and sexual services, an issue that fuels stigma, discouraging the majority from accessing life-saving treatment. The individuals have also raised an issue with the lack of inclusive healthcare services, particularly the absence of sign language interpretation and negative attitudes from healthcare workers. Joseph Gari, the Director of Deaf Empowerment Kenya, says without proper communication, receiving accurate diagnoses and treatment becomes nearly impossible. "It is worrying that because deaf patients cannot fully express their health concerns well, they suffer misdiagnosis and incorrect prescriptions. The lack of awareness and training among healthcare workers has put lives at risk," says Gari. To address these challenges, Deaf Empowerment Kenya, in collaboration with the Global Fund, has been working to equip individuals with disabilities with critical health information. Through the Global Fund sensitisation program since 2019, at least 147 individuals, including the deaf and blind, have been trained on mentorship, gender-based violence prevention, and HIV awareness. Beyond the lack of communication services, persons with disabilities often face outright discrimination when seeking HIV care. Grace Athe, a program officer at Women Challenged to Challenge and a dedicated HIV and disability rights champion, notes that stigma misconceptions about sexual rights keep many people with disabilities from seeking HIV testing and treatment. "There is still a high level of stigma. Many people with disabilities fear going to the hospital to get HIV tests. If they test positive, they are met with judgement, as if it is unheard of for a person with a disability to be sexually active. But where is it written that we shouldn't have relationships, desires, or intimacy?" Because of such criticism and being labelled or judged as a distance majority from HIV testing. "Some fear being labelled or judged, so they would rather not know their status," she says. Athe is among champions working tirelessly to raise awareness among persons with disabilities, helping them understand that HIV can affect anyone and that seeking care is normal and necessary. Among healthcare providers, she is advocating for a change of attitude. "When a person without a disability visits a hospital, they are welcomed warmly. But when someone with a disability walks in, the facial expressions change-it's as if we don't belong there," she laments. The individuals also suffer violation of privacy due to a lack of sign language interpreters in hospitals, where they are forced to be accompanied by an interpreter. "People who are deaf often have to rely on others to communicate with doctors, which means their medical concerns are not confidential. Sign language should be part of the training for all healthcare workers so that patients with hearing disabilities can be served properly," adds Athe. Through her advocacy reaching out to healthcare providers in hospitals, engaging communities and local administrators, and raising public awareness, she hopes for a future where people with disabilities can seek healthcare freely, without fear or stigma. The National Syndemic Disease Control Council (NSDCC) is spearheading efforts to ensure that persons with disabilities are fully included in the fight against HIV. Wendy Chege, the NSDCC regional coordinator supporting Kitui, Machakos, and Makueni, emphasises the importance of engaging people with disabilities to understand their unique challenges and develop strategies that promote a quality life while driving towards zero new infections. "Persons with disabilities often face additional barriers in accessing HIV services. It is crucial that we listen to their concerns and tailor our interventions accordingly," says Chege. To address these gaps, NSDCC is working with select committees in respective regions to develop effective communication strategies. "We are in the process of identifying the best ways to communicate with and support persons with disabilities in HIV prevention, treatment, and care. We need to ensure that our messaging is inclusive and accessible to all," says Chege.

People with disabilities decry of discrimination and stigma in accessing HIV and sexual services

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People with disabilities decry of discrimination and stigma in accessing HIV and sexual services

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