17 Nov 2021

Botswana Network of People living with HIV and AIDS (BONEPWA) has registered concern about non-adherence to treatment by people living with HIV.

BONEPWA Maun-based district coordinator Mr Gosalamang Xaa told BOPA in an interview that 100 defaulters, 97 who missed appointments and 81 untraceable were recorded in seven health facilities last month.

He explained that the organisation had seconded BONEPWA officers to Matlapana, Sedie, Matshwane, Shorobe, Sankoyo and Mababe clinics to sensitise community members about HIV-related issues and to follow up on patients to ensure they took treatment properly.

Mr Xaa said some patients defaulted because of alcohol consumption while some literally forgot appointments, which was risky to their health.

Advising HIV patients to take treatment as a lifelong contract, he said adherence was key to staying healthy.

He also encouraged them to take medication every day and  as prescribed which prevented the virus from multiplying.

Failure to take treatment properly was inviting death as the virus would become more effective and compromise the immune system, he said.

In addition, Mr Xaa said the virus also became resistant to medication.

Mr Xaa expressed gratitude to stakeholders and support groups who helped to trace some patients.

The support groups, he said, also empowered clients with skills, strategies and provided a friendly atmosphere for addressing needs.

They also strengthened linkages between prevention, care and support services, he said.

Mr Xaa revealed that for the month of October, 6 000 people were assisted at the seven health facilities.

Saying it was pleasing that people were coming forth to test for HIV, he noted that  on average, 10 a day were tested.

He however expressed disappointment that men were still dragging their feet when it came to testing.

Mr Xaa said most people preferred to test in non-governmental organisations rather than government facilities in an effort to avert potential stigma and discrimination.

He said some argued that government facilities were not welcoming and at times congested.

The BONEPWA official appealed to the community at large to take responsibility for  own  health and change behaviour to avoid new infections.

BONEPWA’s mission is to improve the wellbeing and quality of life of all people living with HIV and their families.

In addition, it seeks to protect the nation from new infections through promoting behavioral change, positive living, increased utilisation of care and providing support services. Ends