Access to HIV Health Care and Support Services: The Psychosocial-Stigma Experiences of Black Africans

Stigma is not new to public health, nor is it unique to HIV, but quite a complex issue that has deep roots in the intricately folded domains of gender, race, ethnicity, class, sexuality and culture. HIV related stigma remains one of the largest barriers for people living with the disease and accessing HIV healthcare and support services. This study explored stigma experiences in accessing HIV healthcare and support services in the wider context of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), stigma and health. This study was qualitative in nature and adopted purposive sampling. A sample comprised 9 Senior Black Africans above fifty years of age, living with HIV, and regular attendees of a London-based support group. Participants from a previous undergraduate study formed part of the present study. A thematic data analysis was employed and themes that emerged from the interviews included the complex interplay of stigma and access to HIV services; stigma and inequality; stigma and poverty, stigma and peer support groups; stigma and mental health; stigma and the right to stay in the United Kingdom (UK). The results identified themes that may be consequences of stigma that affects individuals and may be manifested as either internalised or externalised stigma or discrimination related to HIV. It is recommended that stigma experienced by most of the participants should be considered when developing intervention strategies to improve access to HIV healthcare and support services. Mental Health and Psycho-social support intervention is ideal for those suffering from stigma.