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Impact, challenges and long-term implications of antiretroviral therapy programme in Nigeria

Universal coverage of antiretroviral treatment  in Nigeria requires more funding

Authors:
Publisher: Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria

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This report from Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON) studies the impact, challenges and long-term implication of the antiretroviral treatment (ART) response to AIDS in Nigeria. Specifically, it looks at i) the structures, processes, numbers of treatment centres and persons on treatment, ii) gaps in commodity management, iii) quality of services, and v) the long term financial implications of the programme. The report finds that the infrastructure for delivery of ART and related services is weak. Only about one in five people who need ART receives it. Guidelines for ART, PMTCT and HCT were not available and many sites lacked adequate space for counselling and pharmacy services. Personnel were inadequate and many staff on the programme had not been trained. Patients routinely incur indirect costs for laboratory monitoring and transportation, creating a major barrier to patient attendance.

The report concludes that the successful implementation of ART roll out throughout the nation requires more funding. The development of guidelines and their dissemination to health care providers, ensuring the mobilisation of adequate human resources and their training and a robust commodity management are critical. The authors recommend an array of strategies to improve access to ART in Nigeria including: Enhanced leadership and commitment at all levels of the national response, securing long term funding and financial sustainability, and improved partnership and collaboration between government and all local and international development partners including the private sector.

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