Accessibility of Antiretroviral Therapy Services by People Living with HIV and Aids in Benue State

Abstract

This study investigated access of people living with HIV and AIDS to Antiretroviral Therapy Services (ARTs) in Benue State. One objective with two corresponding research questions and two hypotheses guided the study. Cross-sectional survey research design was used. The population study consisted of 570,175 People Living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) in Benue State. A sample of 659 PLWHA was drawn using a multi-stage sampling procedure. Questionnaire and focus group discussion guide were used for data collection. The instruments were validated. Frequencies, percentages and Chi-square were used for data analysis. Findings revealed, among others, that 53.5 percent of PLWHA accessed ARTs. There was no significant difference in access based on gender and age. It was recommended, among others, that the State Government and health providers should organize and introduce home-based services and constantly organize ARTS mobile outreach services as well. This will meet the needs of those residing in the rural areas of the State.