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Dwomoh F, Douglas M, Charles-Unadike VO, Komesuor J, Manu E. Motivation, responsibilities, and experiences of HIV/AIDS counselors in the Volta Region of Ghana: a descriptive phenomenological study. AIDS Res Ther 2024; 21:60. [PMID: 39217331 PMCID: PMC11365179 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-024-00648-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The provision of professional counseling services for persons living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) is crucial in the prevention and treatment continuum of the disease. However, for counselors of people infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) leading to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) to give their best, their motivations to become counselors and the challenges they face in their line of duty need to be contextually understood and addressed. We ascertained the roles, motivations, and experiences of HIV/AIDS counselors in the Volta Region of Ghana to inform HIV/AIDS counseling decision-making in the region and the country. METHODS A phenomenological study conducted among sixteen (16) HIV/AIDS counselors from five HIV/AIDS sentinel sites in the Volta region of Ghana, recruited through a purposive sampling approach and interviewed to ascertain their HIV/AIDS counseling-related experiences. The data were thematically analyzed using the Atlas. ti software, and sub-themes supported with verbatim quotes. RESULTS Five motives for becoming an HIV/AIDS counselor were found. These include being randomly assigned to the unit, developing interest in the job, because of the status of a relative, witnessing bad attitudes of healthcare providers, and seeing HIV- clients lacking knowledge of the condition. The study found that these counselors performed six core roles: providing nutritional counseling, educating clients on HIV, treatment, and medication provision, conducting testing and comprehensive counseling of clients, providing social support to clients, and offering financial support to clients. The experiences these counselors had were boosting clients' health status, counseling clients back to a normal mental state, cooperation from clients, participants gaining knowledge on HIV through counseling, counseling clients to accept their status, and when a client delivered an HIV-negative baby. Their negative experiences included clients denying their HIV status, clients defaulting on their treatment, uncooperative clients, death of clients due to fear of breach of confidentiality, self-stigmatization among clients, and the myths some people hold towards HIV/AIDS. CONCLUSION By organizing capacity-building training programs for HIV/AIDS counselors in the Volta region and addressing the negative experiences they encounter, they could be empowered to provide effective counseling, curative, and social services to people living with HIV in the region, leading to improved health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Festus Dwomoh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Fred N. Binka School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Mbuyiselo Douglas
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Walter Sisulu University, Nelson Mandela Drive, Mthatha, South Africa
| | - Veronica O Charles-Unadike
- Department of Population and Behavioral Sciences, Fred N. Binka School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Joyce Komesuor
- Department of Population and Behavioral Sciences, Fred N. Binka School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Emmanuel Manu
- Department of Population and Behavioral Sciences, Fred N. Binka School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana.
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Phan TC, Chau B, Do HN, Vu TBT, Vu KL, Nguyen HD, Nguyen DT, Do HM, Nguyen NTT, La LBT, Dam VAT, Nguyen HT, Nguyen LH, Do AL, Vu TMT, Vu Le MN, Vu GT, Le LK, Latkin CA, Ho CSH, Ho RCM. Determinants of mental health among youths and adolescents in the digital era: Roles of cyber and traditional bullying, violence, loneliness, and environment factors. Front Public Health 2022; 10:971487. [PMID: 36388380 PMCID: PMC9641283 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.971487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Although the pathogenesis of depressive disorders is not fully elucidated, untreated adolescent depression can lead to serious sequelae such as impaired academic performance and social functioning, substance use disorders, poor self-esteem, and increased risk for suicidal ideation and attempts. Literature on adolescent mental health in Vietnam is limited, despite increased international awareness of this critical issue. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associations of depressive symptoms in Vietnamese adolescents. Methods A cross-sectional, self-administered survey was conducted in five provinces of Vietnam among adolescents aged 14 to 24 years. In addition to collecting participants' demographics, a structured questionnaire was developed to examine depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation, loneliness, and cyberbullying victimization. Depressive symptoms and loneliness were assessed via the PHQ-9 and UCLA Loneliness Scale, respectively. Two-tailed Chi-squared, Mann-Whitney, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were performed to examine associations between variables. Multivariate Logistic regression models were conducted to examine the associations between prior-defined variables and positive depressive symptoms. Results Among 1,600 respondents, 31.8% of participants reported having mild-moderate or severe depressive symptoms. Participants within the moderate-severe depressive symptom group had significantly lower community cohesion scores than those of participants in normal and mild depressive symptom groups (p < 0.05). Youths living alone were more likely to have moderate-severe depressive symptoms (OR 2.16; 95% CI: 1.09-4.25). Cyberbullying had significant associations with depressive severity (OR 1.93; 95% CI 1.38-2.70). Conclusion The findings of this study characterize various risk and protective factors for depression in Vietnamese youths and adolescents. The results highlight the importance of raising awareness and increasing access to educational resources for depression and other mental health illnesses. With the rising prevalence of depression, parents, teachers, and community leaders play a vital role in addressing mental health problems in adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tam Chi Phan
- School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Brandon Chau
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Ha Ngoc Do
- Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Vietnam Youth Academy, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thao Bich Thi Vu
- Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Vietnam Youth Academy, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Khanh Long Vu
- Department of Research on Youth's Organisations and Youth Campaign, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hiep Duy Nguyen
- Department of Research on Children's Issues, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Dung Tuan Nguyen
- Department of Research on Youth and Legal Issues, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hoang Minh Do
- Department of Research on Youth Culture and Lifestyle, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Nga Thu Thi Nguyen
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Hanoi Metropolitan University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Ly Bac Thi La
- Faculty of Preschool Education, Hanoi National University of Education, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Vu Anh Trong Dam
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam,Faculty of Nursing, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam,*Correspondence: Vu Anh Trong Dam
| | - Hien Thu Nguyen
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam,Faculty of Nursing, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Long Hoang Nguyen
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anh Linh Do
- Institute of Health Economics and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Minh Ngoc Vu Le
- Institute of Health Economics and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Giang Thu Vu
- Center of Excellence in Evidence-Based Medicine, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Linh Khanh Le
- Business Management Department, Troy University, Troy, AL, United States
| | - Carl A. Latkin
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Cyrus S. H. Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Roger C. M. Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore,Institute for Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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Hoang NA, Van Hoang N, Quach HL, Nguyen KC, Duong LH, Pham TQ, Vogt F. Assessing the mental effects of COVID-19-related work on depression among community health workers in Vietnam. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2022; 20:64. [PMID: 35986294 PMCID: PMC9390118 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-022-00760-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community health workers (CHWs) involved in the COVID-19 response might be at increased risk of developing depression, though evidence is scarce. We investigated effects of COVID-19-related work on changes in depression levels among CHWs in Vietnam and identified sub-groups among CHWs who are at particular risk of developing severe depression. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional online survey among 979 CHWs who were involved in the COVID-19 response in Vietnam, in particular during the 2021 Tet holiday outbreak between January and March 2021. Respondents were asked to report depression symptoms at two-time points, before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic (average June to December 2019) and during the 2021 Tet holiday outbreak using the PHQ-9 mental health questionnaire. We estimated depression levels at both time points and developed univariate and multivariable logistic regression models to estimate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) to explore the association between deterioration to high depression levels and selected risk factors. RESULTS Median depression levels among CHWs in Vietnam doubled from 3 (IQR = 2-7) before COVID-19 to 6 (IQR = 3-9) on the PHQ-9 scale during the Tet holiday outbreak. The proportion with normal/minimal levels decreased from 77.1% (95% CI = 74.4-79.7) to 50.9% (95% CI = 47.7-54) (p-value < 0.001), while the proportion of CHWs with moderate, moderately severe, and severe depression levels increased 4.3, 4.5, and five-fold, respectively. Less sleep and poor sleep quality, working in unfavorable work environments, and being involved in contact tracing and the organization of quarantine for suspected cases were associated with an increased risk of deterioration to high depression levels. CONCLUSIONS We found a substantial increase in overall depression levels among CHWs in Vietnam due to their COVID-19 related work and a particularly worrisome rise in CHWs suffering from severe depression. CHWs are an indispensable yet often overlooked cadre of work in many low- and middle-income countries and shoulder a heavy psychological burden during the COVID-19 pandemic. Targeted psychological support for CHWs is needed to improve their mental health and to ensure the sustainability of community-based health interventions during COVID-19 and future epidemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngoc-Anh Hoang
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, College of Health and Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Ngoc Van Hoang
- The General Department of Preventive Medicine, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Ha-Linh Quach
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, College of Health and Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Luong Huy Duong
- Medical Services Administration, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thai Quang Pham
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Florian Vogt
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, College of Health and Medicine, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Voluntary Counseling and Testing, Antiretroviral Therapy Access, and HIV-Related Stigma: Global Progress and Challenges. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19116597. [PMID: 35682181 PMCID: PMC9179955 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
To date, about 37 million people are living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and an estimated 680,000 people have died from acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) related illnesses globally. While all countries have been impacted by HIV, some have been significantly more impacted than others, particularly countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The purpose of this paper was to identify progress made in HIV prevention globally, particularly in the areas of voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) uptake, access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), and HIV-related stigma. With the development of ART, a cocktail of medications for the treatment of HIV, VCT uptake increased, as it became apparent that the medication would only be prescribed after an HIV diagnosis through testing. Widely considered a critical gateway to HIV prevention and treatment, VCT is being implemented in many countries, and as a result, about 38 million people living with HIV in 2018 had access to ART. Regardless of this success, major challenges still remain. We did an electronic search of 135 articles in English related to global HIV progress and challenges indexed in PubMed, ResearchGate, Google, and other search engines from 1998 to 2021. Sixty articles met the inclusion criteria for this paper. Data on trends in ART coverage were obtained from the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) website. These data were used to show ART coverage globally in World Health Organization (WHO) regions. It was found that while global successes have been chalked in the areas of VCT uptake and ART coverage, HIV-related stigma has impeded greater success. This paper summarizes and discusses global successes and challenges in HIV prevention efforts in the past four decades with a focus on VCT, ART, and HIV-related stigma.
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Adekunjo FO, Rasiah R, Dahlui M, Ng CW. Assessing the willingness to pay for HIV counselling and testing service: a contingent valuation study in Lagos State, Nigeria. AJAR-AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH 2021; 19:287-295. [PMID: 33337980 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2020.1834417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
HIV/AIDS is a major health issue faced by the world, generally, but particularly sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria ranked third in the world by number of people living with HIV/AIDS in 2019. Despite prominent HIV counselling and testing (HCT) intervention programmes, Nigeria faces serious challenges, such as inadequate funding and low utilisation rates. Paucity of research into such a critical topic has restricted the capacity of policy makers to address the problem adequately. Consequently, a cross-sectional study was carried out using the contingent valuation method to assess the economic quantum of payment and determining factors associated with people's willingness to pay for HCT services. Data were collected from 768 people selected by convenience sampling of three local government areas - Alimosho, Ikorodu and Surulere in Lagos State, Nigeria. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square, Mann-Whitney, and general linear regression model analysis. Findings show that 75% of respondents were willing to pay an average fee of N1 291 ($4.22) for HCT services. Significant determinants of willingness to pay were: income; knowledge of someone living with HIV or died of AIDS; worry about HIV infection; and fear of HIV-related stigma. The findings offer vital information germane to co-payment schemes aimed at financial sustainability of HCT and HIV/AIDS programmes in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rajah Rasiah
- Asia Europe Institute, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Maznah Dahlui
- Centre of Population Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Faculty of Public Health, University of Airlangga, Indonesia
| | - Chiu Wan Ng
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Julius Centre, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Eliciting Preferences for HIV Prevention Technologies: A Systematic Review. PATIENT-PATIENT CENTERED OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2020; 14:151-174. [PMID: 33319339 PMCID: PMC7884379 DOI: 10.1007/s40271-020-00486-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Many human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention technologies (pre-exposure prophylaxis, microbicides, vaccines) are available or in development. Preference elicitation methods provide insight into client preferences that may be used to optimize products and services. Given increased utilization of such methods in HIV prevention, this article identifies and reviews these methods and synthesizes their application to HIV prevention technologies. Methods In May 2020, we systematically searched peer-reviewed literature in PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science for studies employing quantitative preference elicitation methods to measure preferences for HIV prevention technologies among populations of any age, sex, or location. Quality assessment used an existing checklist (PREFS) and a novel adaptation of the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (PROSPERO #CRD42018087027). Results We screened 5022 titles and abstracts, reviewed 318 full texts, and included 84 studies. Common methods employed were discrete-choice experiment (33%), conjoint analysis (25%), and willingness-to-participate/try/accept (21%). Studies were conducted in 25 countries and had a mean of 768 participants (range = 26–7176), two-thirds of them male. Common HIV prevention technologies included pre-exposure prophylaxis (23%), voluntary testing and counseling (19%), HIV self-testing (17%), vaccines (15%), and topical microbicides (9%). Most attributes focused on product design (side effects, frequency), service design (provider type, location), acceptability or willingness to accept/pay; results are summarized in these categories, by prevention type. Mean quality-adapted Newcastle–Ottawa Scale score was 4.5/8 (standard deviation = 2.1) and mean PREFS scores was 3.47/5 (standard deviation = 0.81). Conclusions This review synthesizes extant literature on quantitative measurement of preferences for HIV prevention technologies. This can enable practitioners to improve prevention products and interventions, and ultimately reduce HIV incidence.
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Do HN, Nguyen AT, Nguyen HQT, Bui TP, Nguyen QV, Tran NTT, Nguyen LH, Pham HQ, Ha GH, Hoang CL, Tran BX, Latkin CA, Ho RCM, Ho CSH. Depressive Symptoms, Suicidal Ideation, and Mental Health Service Use of Industrial Workers: Evidence from Vietnam. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E2929. [PMID: 32340335 PMCID: PMC7216084 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17082929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background: Depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation substantially reduce industrial workers' productivity and performance. This study was performed to examine the prevalence of depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation and identify associated factors among industrial workers in different provinces of Vietnam. Materials and Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study in industrial zones of four provinces of Vietnam. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was employed to screen depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine factors related to depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation. Results: Of 1200 industrial workers, 30.5% and 33.6% industrial workers had positive depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation in the last two weeks, respectively. There were 38.3% ever using mental health services in the last 12 months. High school education (OR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.44-0.95); living in dormitory (OR = 3.07, 95% CI = 1.51-6.24), living with siblings (OR = 2.98; 95% CI = 1.32-6.75), having two children or more (OR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.03-2.03), high years of experience (OR = 0.94; 95% CI = 0.89-0.98), suffering from burnout, alcohol use disorder (OR = 2.38; 95% CI = 1.72-3.28), and smoking status (OR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.23-0.61) were associated with positive depressive symptoms. Living with children, working in mechanical/metallurgy/electronics factories, completely exhausted and often thinking of quitting, and alcohol use disorder were positively related to suicidal ideation. Conclusions: This study found a high prevalence of depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation among industrial workers in Vietnam. Regular screening and detecting high-risk groups, along with interventions to reduce health risk behaviors, burnout and on-site medical service quality improvement, are recommended to alleviate the burden of depression in industrial workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ha Ngoc Do
- Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam;
| | - Anh Tuan Nguyen
- Department of Research on Youth Culture and Lifestyle, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam; (A.T.N.); (H.Q.T.N.); (Q.V.N.)
| | - Hoa Quynh Thi Nguyen
- Department of Research on Youth Culture and Lifestyle, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam; (A.T.N.); (H.Q.T.N.); (Q.V.N.)
| | - Thanh Phuong Bui
- Department of Research on Children’s Issues, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam;
| | - Quy Van Nguyen
- Department of Research on Youth Culture and Lifestyle, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam; (A.T.N.); (H.Q.T.N.); (Q.V.N.)
| | - Ngan Thu Thi Tran
- Department of Research on Youth and Legal issues, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam;
| | - Long Hoang Nguyen
- VNU School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam;
| | - Hai Quang Pham
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam;
- Faculty of Medicine, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam
| | - Giang Hai Ha
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam;
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam
| | - Chi Linh Hoang
- Center of Excellence in Behavioral Medicine, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (C.L.H.); (R.C.M.H.)
| | - Bach Xuan Tran
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam;
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
| | - Carl A. Latkin
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
| | - Roger C. M. Ho
- Center of Excellence in Behavioral Medicine, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (C.L.H.); (R.C.M.H.)
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore
| | - Cyrus S. H. Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore;
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Anunsittichai O, Pongpirul K, Puthanakit T, Roowicha K, Kaewprasert J, Songtaweesin WN, Chaithongwongwattana S. Husband's willingness-to-pay for HIV and syphilis screening at antenatal care clinic under the Thai universal coverage scheme. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:480. [PMID: 32276624 PMCID: PMC7149847 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08613-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Screening for sexually transmitted infection (STI) especially HIV as early detection and treatment have been financially supported under the Thai Universal Coverage (UC) scheme since 2009 (THB140 for HIV). However, the implementation has not been evidence-based, strategic risk-based, nor economically evaluated whereas husbands who accompanied the pregnant women are likely to have a lower risk than those who did not come along. This study is aimed to determine the husband’s willingness-to-pay (WTP) for his HIV and syphilis screening tests and potential factors affecting STI screenings at the antenatal care (ANC) clinic of a tertiary hospital in Thailand. Methods A pilot open-ended interview was conducted among 50 participants to estimate the mean and standard deviation of WTP prices for HIV and syphilis screening tests. A questionnaire was developed to obtain demographics, STI knowledge and screening history, as well as two contingent valuation methods (bidding and payment scale), using the mean WTP prices identified from the pilot study as a starting WTP with ¼SD step-up/down. The survey of 200 randomly selected husbands of pregnant women was conducted at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital from April to June 2018. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used for data analysis. Results During the study period, 597 pregnant women received their first ANC. Of 368 accompanying husbands, 200 were enrolled in the study. Their median age was 31 (IQR 27–36) years old and 67% had a first child. Eighty-eight percent of the participants were willing to test for the STIs. Based on the bidding method, WTP prices for HIV and syphilis screening tests were US$14.5 (IQR 12.4–14.5) and US$9.7 (IQR 10–12), respectively. The payment scale method suggested approximately three-quarters of the WTP prices from the bidding method. Conclusions The husbands who accompanied their pregnant wives to the ANC clinic showed positive behaviors according to the propitious selection theory. They tend to cooperate well with STI testing and are willing to pay at least two times the price of the STI screening tests. The financial support to promote STI screenings should be reconsidered to cover other groups with higher sexual behavior risks and less WTP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orawan Anunsittichai
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 1873 Rama IV Rd., Patumwan, Bangkok, Thailand.,Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Vaccines, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Krit Pongpirul
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 1873 Rama IV Rd., Patumwan, Bangkok, Thailand. .,Department of International Health and Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Thanyawee Puthanakit
- Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Vaccines, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Koranit Roowicha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jirarat Kaewprasert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wipaporn Natalie Songtaweesin
- Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Vaccines, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Surasith Chaithongwongwattana
- Center of Excellence for Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Vaccines, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Factors Associated with Improved HIV/AIDS Treatment Outcomes: Comparing two Major ART Service Delivery Models in Vietnam. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:2840-2848. [PMID: 31236748 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02571-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
A mixed design approach was performed to assess the CD4 count levels over time and their associated factors among 362 HIV patients on ART from clinics with HIV testing and counseling (ART-HTC) services and those with general healthcare (ART-GH) services. Longitudinal CD4 count data were retrospectively collected from medical records. Sociodemographic, clinical, alcohol use and smoking characteristics were obtained via face-to-face interviews. Multivariate mixed effect linear regression was utilized to determine the association. We found that HIV patients at ART-GH clinics were more likely to achieve higher CD4 counts over time compared to patients at ART-HTC clinics. Additionally, having an increase in CD4 counts was found to be associated with having longer duration of ART and higher baseline CD4 levels. Cigarette smoking and hazardous alcohol use, however, were not associated with CD4 count improvement. Our findings suggest that combining HTC and GH services might provide a synergistic benefit in ART treatment outcomes through an improved access to comprehensive HIV healthcare services for HIV patients on therapy.
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Depression and Quality of Life among Patients Living with HIV/AIDS in the Era of Universal Treatment Access in Vietnam. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15122888. [PMID: 30562949 PMCID: PMC6313339 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15122888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Although antiretroviral treatment (ART) access has been universal in recent years, few studies have examined if this policy contributes to the mental health of the patients. This study assessed depression and its relations with health-related quality of life (HRQOL), which is defined as the status of general well-being, physical, emotional, and psychological, among HIV patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 482 patients at five outpatient clinics. Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and EuroQol-5 dimensions-5 levels (EQ-5D-5L) were used to assess the severity of depression and HRQOL. About one-fifth of patients reported symptoms of depression. According to the result of a multivariate logistic regression model, patients who had a lower number of CD4 cells at the start of ART, who received ART in the clinic without HIV counseling and testing (HCT) services, who had a physical health problem, and who experienced discrimination were more likely to have depression. Depression was associated with significantly decreased HRQOL. Depression is prevalent and significantly negatively associated with HRQOL of HIV/AIDS patients. We recommend screening for depression and intervening in the lives of depressed individuals with respect to those who start ART late, and we also recommend community-based behavioral change campaigns to reduce HIV discrimination.
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The Dark Side of Female HIV Patient Care: Sexual and Reproductive Health Risks in Pre- and Post-Clinical Treatments. J Clin Med 2018; 7:jcm7110402. [PMID: 30384413 PMCID: PMC6262424 DOI: 10.3390/jcm7110402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Revised: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examines the pre- and post-clinical issues in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care and treatment for women and girls of high-risk population groups—namely sex workers, injecting drug users, women living with HIV, primary sexual partners of people living with HIV, adolescent girls who are children of these groups, and migrant young girls and women—in five provinces and cities in Vietnam. Through a sample of 241 surveyed participants and 48 respondents for in-depth interviews and 32 respondents in the focus group discussions, the study identifies multiple barriers that keep these groups from receiving the proper health care that is well within their human rights. Most respondents rated HIV testing as easily accessible, yet only 18.9% of the surveyed women living with HIV disclosed their infection status, while 37.8% gave no information at the most recent prenatal care visit. The level of knowledge and proper practices of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) care also remains limited. Meanwhile, modern birth control methods have yet to be widely adopted among these populations: only 30.7% of respondents reported using condoms when having sex with their husband. This increases the risks of unwanted pregnancy and abortion, as well as vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV transmission. On the other hand, HIV-related stigma and discrimination at health care settings are still pervasive, which create significant barriers for patients to access proper care services. Based on these results, six recommendations to improve SRH status of women and girls of populations at high risk are put forward.
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Tran BX, Duong HD, Nguyen AQ, Pham LD, Tran TT, Latkin CA. Child Desire Among Men and Women Living with HIV/AIDS in the Traditional Culture of Vietnam. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:2888-2894. [PMID: 29332236 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-2029-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In various settings, heterogeneity in fertility rates among HIV-affected couples highlights the importance of understanding contextual factors to inform program planning and implementation. We interviewed 1016 patients with HIV/AIDS at seven clinics in Vietnam to assess their desire to have a(nother) child and willingness to pay (WTP) for prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) services. One-fifth of participants reported their desire for a(another) child and this was slightly higher among men than women. Factors associated with the desire to have a(nother) child of HIV/AIDS patients included (1) not yet have a child or a son, (2) provincial and district-level service, (3) income per capita, (4) marital status and (5) history of drug injection. The average WTP for PMTCT service was US $179 (95% CI 161-197). The study highlights the need for interventions on social, cultural barriers, improved accessibility and outcomes of counseling, and better care and treatment services for couples and child affected by HIV/AIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bach Xuan Tran
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam.
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Ha Dai Duong
- Department of Surgery, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Anh Quynh Nguyen
- School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Linh Dieu Pham
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Tung Thanh Tran
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Carl A Latkin
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Sexual Risk Behaviors of Patients with HIV/AIDS over the Course of Antiretroviral Treatment in Northern Vietnam. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15061106. [PMID: 29844289 PMCID: PMC6025123 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15061106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) improves the health and well-being of people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV, PLWH), and reduces their risk of transmitting the virus to sexual partners. However, patterns of sexual risk behavior among HIV-positive patients taking ART in Vietnam remain largely unknown. In this study, we sought to examine sexual risk behaviors and their associated factors among HIV-positive patients receiving ART in northern Vietnam. The socio-demographic characteristics, ART use, health status, and sexual behaviors of 1133 patients taking ART in the Hanoi and Nam Dinh provinces were explored through face-to-face interviews. There were 63.5% of patients who had one sex partner, while 3.6% and 5.6% of patients had sexual intercourse with casual partners or sex workers, respectively, in the previous 12 months. Most participants tended to use condoms more often with commercial sex partners (90.2%) and intimate partners (79.7%), and less often with casual partners (60.9%). Higher age (odds ratio, OR = 1.0; 95% CIs = 1.0, 1.1) or suffering pain/discomfort (OR = 1.7; 95% CIs = 1.2, 2.4) were factors more likely to be associated with multiple sex partners. Patients who were self-employed were more likely to have sexual intercourse with casual partners/sex workers (OR = 2.1; 95% CIs = 1.1, 4.0). Meanwhile, a higher score on the EuroQol visual analog scale (EQ-VAS), an unknown HIV stage, and a longer duration of ART were adversely associated with not using condoms with casual partners/sex workers. Patients with longer durations of ART had a lower likelihood of not using a condom with casual partners/sex workers (OR = 0.5; 95% CIs = 0.3, 0.8). Our study underscored a relatively high rate of unsafe sexual behaviors among HIV-positive patients. Continuing to improve the physical and psychological well-being of HIV-positive patients in Vietnam is important in reducing the spread of HIV via risky sexual behaviors. In addition, safe-sex education should be provided to older people, and to those who are self-employed.
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Tran BX, Nguyen LH, Tran TT, Latkin CA. Social and structural barriers for adherence to methadone maintenance treatment among Vietnamese opioid dependence patients. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0190941. [PMID: 29346444 PMCID: PMC5773191 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) services may reduce the risk of HIV transmission if patients completely adhere to the treatment. Identifying adherence patterns and potential related factors is vital for the sustainability of MMT program in Vietnam. This study examined social and structural factors associated with adherence to MMT among patients in different service delivery models. Materials and methods A total of 510 patients at three MMT clinics in Hanoi were interviewed. Measures of self-reported adherence included the number of missed doses in the past 7 days and the level of adherence in the past 30 days using a visual analog scale (VAS) scoring from 0 (non-adherence) to 100 (perfect adherence). Multivariate regressions were employed to identify factors associated with non-adherence to MMT. Results A total of 17.7% of participants reported incomplete MMT adherence in the last 30 days and 8.3% reported missing a dose in the last seven days, respectively. Living with HIV/AIDS, poor self-care and usual activities, and disclosure of health issues to spouses or intimate partners were associated with non-adherence. Those patients with pain or depression were more likely to report better adherence. Disclosing health status to spouse/partner increased the risk of incomplete adherence, while disclosing to friends reduced the number of missed dose in the last seven days. Patients attending clinics with comprehensive services had a lower VAS score of adherence compared to those enrolling in clinics with only MMT and general health care. Conclusions Sustaining the compliance of patients to MMT is principal in the rapid expansion of this service in Vietnam. It is necessary to address the complexity of health care demands of drug users, their difficulties to be rehabilitated into workforce and society, and the stigmatization to maximize the outcomes of MMT program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bach Xuan Tran
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Long Hoang Nguyen
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Tung Thanh Tran
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Carl A. Latkin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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Nguyen LH, Tran BX, Do CD, Hoang CL, Nguyen TP, Dang TT, Thu Vu G, Tran TT, Latkin CA, Ho CS, Ho RC. Feasibility and willingness to pay for dengue vaccine in the threat of dengue fever outbreaks in Vietnam. Patient Prefer Adherence 2018; 12:1917-1926. [PMID: 30288032 PMCID: PMC6163003 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s178444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The escalation of dengue fever (DF) cases in recent years and the occurrence of a large-scale DF outbreak in 2017 underline the importance of dengue vaccines in Vietnam. Given the potential benefits of the dengue vaccines and the need for copayment by the private sector, this study aims to evaluate the willingness to pay (WTP) for the dengue vaccines in patients with DF in Northern Vietnam. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted on 330 in-and-out patients with DF admitted to the Bach Mai Hospital. We used the contingent valuation method to evaluate the WTP for dengue vaccines. Socioeconomic and clinical characteristics were also investigated. Multivariate interval and logistic regression models were used to estimate the average amount of WTP and identify the factors associated with the WTP. RESULTS Around 77.3% patients were willing to pay an average amount of US$ 67.4 (95% CI=57.4-77.4) for the vaccine. People of higher ages, those having health insurance, those traveling in the past 15 days or suffering from anxiety/depression were less likely to be willing to pay for the dengue vaccine. However, people having a longer duration of DF or having problems with mobility were positively associated with WTP for the dengue vaccine. Patients educated to more than high school levels (Coeff.=31.31; 95% CI=3.26-59.35), those in the richest quintile (Coeff.=62.76; 95% CI=25.40; 100.13), or those having a longer duration of the disease (Coeff.=6.18; 95% CI=0.72-11.63) were willing to pay a higher amount. CONCLUSION This study highlights a relatively high rate and amount of WTP for the dengue vaccine among patients with DF. Psychological counseling services as well as educational campaigns should be undertaken to improve the WTP for the vaccine. Moreover, government subsidies should be given to increase the coverage of the vaccine in the future, especially for the poor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Hoang Nguyen
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bach Xuan Tran
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam,
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA,
- Vietnam Young Physician Association, Hanoi, Vietnam,
| | - Cuong Duy Do
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Bach Mai Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Chi Linh Hoang
- Center of Excellence in Behavioral Medicine, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam
| | - Thao Phuong Nguyen
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam,
| | - Trang Thi Dang
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam,
| | - Giang Thu Vu
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Tung Thanh Tran
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Carl A Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA,
| | - Cyrus S Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Roger Cm Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Boggiano VL, Nguyen HLT, Nguyen LH, Tran TD, Van Nguyen H, Le HT, Le HQ, Hoang CD, Nguyen CT, Tran BX, Latkin CA, Zary N, Vu TMT. Sexual behaviors among methadone maintenance patients in a mountainous area in northern Vietnam. SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT PREVENTION AND POLICY 2017; 12:39. [PMID: 28841918 PMCID: PMC5574107 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-017-0123-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) improves patients’ ability to access HIV-related services and reduces needle sharing and other risky HIV-related behaviors. However, patients may continue to engage in risky sexual practices. In this study, we evaluate sexual behaviors of MMT patients in a mountainous province in Northern Vietnam. Methods We explored the health status, MMT and substance use history, and sexual practices of 241 male MMT patients in Tuyen Quang province. Health status was investigated using the EuroQOL-5 Dimensions-5 Levels (EQ-5D-5 L). Multivariate logistic regression was employed to assess associated factors. Results Most patients (66.4%) reported having at least one sexual partner within the previous twelve months. Most of these partners were spouses or primary partners (72.6%). About 8.3% of patients had casual partners, and 5.8% had visited sex workers; of those who engaged in casual sexual relationships, 90.9% reported using condoms. Current drug use and living in a remote area were associated with an increased odd of having two or more sexual partners, while anxiety or depression was associated with lower odds. Conclusion This study highlights a low proportion of having sexual risk behaviors among MMT patients in Vietnamese mountainous settings. Integrating education about safe sexual practices into MMT services, along with providing medical care and ensuring methadone treatment adherence, is an important component in HIV risk reduction for these patients who were at risk of unsafe sexual practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria L Boggiano
- Berkeley School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Huong Lan Thi Nguyen
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, 550000, Vietnam.
| | - Long Hoang Nguyen
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Tho Dinh Tran
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Vietnam-Germany Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hung Van Nguyen
- Authority of HIV/AIDS Control, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Huong Thi Le
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hai Quan Le
- Tuyen Quang Provincial AIDS Center, Tuyen Quang, Vietnam
| | - Canh Dinh Hoang
- Authority of HIV/AIDS Control, Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Cuong Tat Nguyen
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, 550000, Vietnam
| | - Bach Xuan Tran
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam.,Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carl A Latkin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nabil Zary
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Thuc Minh Thi Vu
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, National Otolaryngology Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
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Tran BX, Nguyen QL, Nguyen LH, Phan HTT, Le HT, Tran TD, Vu TTM, Latkin CA. Expanding co-payment for methadone maintenance services in Vietnam: the importance of addressing health and socioeconomic inequalities. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:480. [PMID: 28701208 PMCID: PMC5508786 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2405-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ensuring high enrollment while mobilizing resources through co-payment services is critical to the success of the methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) program in Vietnam. This study assessed the willingness of patients to pay (WTP) for different MMT services delivery models and determined its associated factors. METHODS A facility based survey was conducted among 1016 MMT patients (98.7% male, 42% aged 35 or less, and 67% living with spouse) in five MMT clinics in Hanoi and Nam Dinh province in 2013. Socioeconomic, HIV and health status, history of drug use and rehabilitation, and MMT experience were interviewed. WTP was assessed using contingent valuation method, including a set of double-bounded binary questions and a follow-up open-ended question. Point and interval data models were used to estimate maximum willingness to pay. RESULTS 95.5% patients were willing to pay for MMT at the monthly mean price of US$ 32 (95%CI = 28-35). Higher WTP was associated with higher level of educational attainment, higher income, male sex, and had high expenses on opiates prior to MMT. Patients who reported having any problem in Pain/ Discomfort, and who did not have outpatient care last year were willing to pay less for MMT than others. CONCLUSION High level of WTP supports the co-payment policies as a strategy to mobilize resources for the MMT program in Vietnam. However, it is necessary to ensure equalities across patient groups by acknowledging socioeconomic status of different settings and providing financial supports for disadvantaged patients with severe health status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bach Xuan Tran
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Quyen Le Nguyen
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Long Hoang Nguyen
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Huong Thi Le
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Tho Dinh Tran
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Viet-Duc Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thuc Thi Minh Vu
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, National Otolaryngology Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Carl A. Latkin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
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Co-financing for viral load monitoring during the course of antiretroviral therapy among patients with HIV/AIDS in Vietnam: A contingent valuation survey. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172050. [PMID: 28199405 PMCID: PMC5310871 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Viral load testing is considered the gold standard for monitoring HIV treatment; however, given its high cost, some patients cannot afford viral load testing if this testing is not subsidized. Since foreign aid for HIV/AIDS in Vietnam is rapidly decreasing, we sought to assess willingness to pay (WTP) for viral load and CD4 cell count tests among HIV-positive patients, and identified factors that might inform future co-payment schemes. Methods A multi-site cross-sectional survey was conducted with 1133 HIV-positive patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Hanoi and Nam Dinh. Patients’ health insurance coverage, quality of life, and history of illicit drug use were assessed. A contingent valuation approach was employed to measure patients’ WTP for CD4 cell count and viral load testing. Results HIV-positive patients receiving ART at provincial sites reported more difficulty obtaining health insurance (HI) and had the overall the poorest quality of life. Most patients (90.9%) were willing to pay for CD4 cell count testing; here, the mean WTP was valued at US$8.2 (95%CI = 7.6–8.8 US$) per test. Most patients (87.3%) were also willing to pay for viral load testing; here, mean WTP was valued at US$18.6 (95%CI = 16.3–20.9 US$) per test. High income, high education level, and hospitalization were positively associated with WTP, while co-morbidity with psychiatric symptoms and trouble paying for health insurance were both negatively related to WTP. Conclusions These findings raise concerns that HIV-positive patients in Vietnam might have low WTP for CD4 cell count and viral load testing. This means that without foreign financial subsidies, many of these patients would likely go without these important tests. Treating psychiatric co-morbidities, promoting healthcare services utilization, and removing barriers to accessing health insurance may increase WTP for monitoring of HIV/AIDS treatment among HIV+-positive Vietnamese patients.
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Methadone Maintenance Treatment Promotes Referral and Uptake of HIV Testing and Counselling Services amongst Drug Users and Their Partners. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0152804. [PMID: 27046029 PMCID: PMC4821610 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0152804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2015] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) reduces HIV risk behaviors and improves access to HIV-related services among drug users. In this study, we assessed the uptake and willingness of MMT patients to refer HIV testing and counseling (HTC) service to their sexual partners and relatives. Methods Health status, HIV-related risk behaviors, and HTC uptake and referrals of 1,016 MMT patients in Hanoi and Nam Dinh were investigated. Willingness to pay (WTP) for HTC was elicited using a contingent valuation technique. Interval and logistic regression models were employed to determine associated factors. Results Most of the patients (94.2%) had received HTC, 6.6 times on average. The proportion of respondents willing to refer their partners, their relatives and to be voluntary peer educators was 45.7%, 35.3%, and 33.3%, respectively. Attending MMT integrated with HTC was a facilitative factor for HTC uptake, greater WTP, and volunteering as peer educators. Older age, higher education and income, and HIV positive status were positively related to willingness to refer partners or relatives, while having health problems (mobility, usual care, pain/discomfort) was associated with lower likelihood of referring others or being a volunteer. Over 90% patients were willing to pay an average of US $17.9 for HTC service. Conclusion The results highlighted the potential role of MMT patients as referrers to HTC and voluntary peer educators. Integrating HIV testing with MMT services and applying users’ fee are potential strategies to mobilize resources and encourage HIV testing among MMT patients and their partners.
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Tran BX, Nguyen LH, Nguyen CT, Phan HTT, Latkin CA. Alcohol abuse increases the risk of HIV infection and diminishes health status of clients attending HIV testing services in Vietnam. Harm Reduct J 2016; 13:6. [PMID: 26879232 PMCID: PMC4755002 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-016-0096-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2015] [Accepted: 01/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Vietnam is among those countries with the highest drinking prevalence. In this study, we examined the prevalence of alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and its associations with HIV risky behaviors, health care utilization, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among clients using voluntary HIV testing and counseling services (VCT). Methods A cross-sectional survey of 365 VCT clients (71 % male; mean age 34) was conducted in Hanoi and Nam Dinh province. AUD and HRQOL were measured using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Consumption (AUDIT-C), and EuroQol-five dimensions-five levels (EQ-5D-5L). Risky sexual behaviors, concurrent opioid use, and inpatient and outpatient service use were self-reported. Results 67.2 % clients were lifetime ever drinkers of those 62.9 % were hazardous drinkers and 82.0 % were binge drinkers. There were 48.8 % respondents who had ≥2 sex partners over the past year and 55.4, 38.3, and 46.1 % did not use condom in the last sex with primary/casual/commercial sex partners, respectively. Multivariate models show that AUD was significantly associated with risky sexual behaviors, using inpatient care and lower HRQOL among VCT clients. Conclusions AUD was prevalent, was associated with increased risks of HIV infection, and diminished health status among VCT clients. It may be efficient to screen for AUD and refer at-risk clients to appropriate AUD counseling and treatment along with HIV-related services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bach Xuan Tran
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam. .,Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Long Hoang Nguyen
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam.,School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Cuong Tat Nguyen
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | | | - Carl A Latkin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Tran BX, Nguyen LH, Nong VM, Nguyen CT, Phan HTT, Latkin CA. Behavioral and quality-of-life outcomes in different service models for methadone maintenance treatment in Vietnam. Harm Reduct J 2016; 13:4. [PMID: 26837193 PMCID: PMC4736621 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-016-0091-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2015] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Integrating HIV/AIDS and methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) services with existing health care delivery system is critical in sustaining efforts to fight HIV/AIDS in large injection-driven epidemics. However, efficiency of different integrative service models is unknown. This study assessed behavioral and health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) outcomes of MMT in four service delivery models and explored factors associated with these outcomes of interest. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted in two HIV epicenters in Vietnam: Hanoi and Nam Dinh Province. All patients in five selected MMT clinics were invited to participate, and 1016 were interviewed (80-90% response rate). RESULTS Respondents had a mean age of 35.8, taken MMT for average 16.5 months and 3.3% on MMT for 36-60 months. The MMT integrated with rural district health center (DHC) has the highest prevalence of concurrent drug use (11.3%). The percentage of condom use (last sexual intercourse) with primary and casual partners was lowest in the MMT at urban DHCs. Patients at the rural DHC reported very high proportions of pain/discomfort (37.8%), anxiety/depression (43.1%), and mobility (13.3%). In regression models, poorer HRQOL outcomes were found in MMT models in the rural areas or without general health care, and among those patients who were HIV positive, reported concurrent drug use, and had higher numbers of previous drug rehabilitation episodes. Mobility and anxiety/depression are factors that increased the likelihood of concurrent drug use among MMT patients. CONCLUSIONS Outcomes of MMT were diverse across different integrative service models. Policies on rapid expansion of the MMT program in Vietnam should also emphasize on the integration with comprehensive health care services including psychological supports for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bach Xuan Tran
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam. .,Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Long Hoang Nguyen
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam.,School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Vuong Minh Nong
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Cuong Tat Nguyen
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | | | - Carl A Latkin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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