Experiences and Perceptions of Children and Adolescents Living with HIV in Accessing Healthcare in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review Protocol

Background: The increasing number of children and adolescents living with HIV (LWHIV) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) remains a significant global health concern. Despite numerous studies on HIV, there has been limited focus on the lived experiences of HIV infected children and adolescents, and how these experiences affect their access to healthcare services. Objective: The proposed scoping review aims to synthesize the available evidence on the experiences and perceptions of children and adolescents LWHIV in accessing healthcare services in SSA. Methods: The review will follow the methodological framework proposed by Arksey and O'Malley (2005). Relevant studies will be identified through a comprehensive search of electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus) using a combination of keywords and phrases related to the research question. Studies will be selected based on predefined eligibility criteria, including the involvement of HIV-positive children and adolescents (aged 0-19 years) in SSA and a focus on their experiences and perceptions of accessing healthcare services. Data extraction will be conducted using a standardized form, and thematic analysis will be employed to identify common experiences and perceptions. The Socio-Ecological Model will serve as a conceptual framework for analyzing the extracted data. Discussion: The scoping review will systematically report the existing evidence on the experiences and perceptions of HIV-positive children and adolescents in accessing healthcare services in SSA. The findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of the barriers and facilitators encountered by this vulnerable population, informing the development of comprehensive interventions and policies to improve healthcare access and promote inclusivity and support for their health and well-being.