Barriers and facilitators to primary care for people living with HIV and diabetes in Harare

Abstract

Background: People living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and comorbid diabetes mellitus (DM) face significant challenges owing to the complex interplay between these chronic conditions and the need for comprehensive and integrated care. Service availability and readiness for primary care are essential for the health of individuals and populations.

Aim: This study aimed to explore barriers and facilitators to the provision of care to the patients with HIV and T2DM comorbidity.

Setting: The study was conducted at Primary health centres in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Methods: A mixed-methods design was applied.

Results: An audit of primary care facilities identified that there was adequate infrastructure and equipment for HIV and T2DM diagnosis and treatment. However, there are gaps in the availability of essential medicines and supplies, such as test strips for blood glucose monitoring. The assessment also showed that the centres had a chronic shortage of healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses and counsellors, and there was a need for additional training and support for healthcare providers in the management of HIV and T2DM.

Conclusion: The study concludes that the delivery of health services to patients with HIV and T2DM at primary care centres in Harare, Zimbabwe, faces significant challenges. Suggestions included improved resource allocation and multisectoral collaboration to improve the delivery of healthcare services.

Contribution: The research contributes insight into disparities between urban and rural primary care facilities in providing services, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to bridge gaps and enhance care quality.