Document Type

Capstone Experience

Graduation Date

8-2019

Degree Name

Master of Public Health

Department

Health Promotion

First Committee Member

Paul Estabrooks

Second Committee Member

David Palm

Third Committee Member

Cliff Malemi

Abstract

Goal

The goal of the project is to explore barriers associated with not testing for HIV among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Dodoma City, Tanzania.

Objectives

In order to achieve the goal of exploring barriers associated with not testing for HIV among MSM, I will plan and conduct the study, analyze the data, and prepare the final research report.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study will be conducted in Dodoma City, Tanzania. A total of 10 MSM 19 years of age and above will be purposefully selected by 3 peer educators to be part of the study. I will also interview 5 service providers who provide HIV testing in Dodoma City. Participants will be asked open-ended questions in Swahili and the responses will be digital recorded. Transcripts will be translated and produced by me with the help of my husband. Results will be analyzed using a thematic and coding system.

Results

10 participants were interviewed and majority of participants were young, high school graduates, single and worked mostly part-time while making very low income. There were seven themes and three subthemes generated from 34 codes. The seven themes were healthcare services(facilities), HIV knowledge &testing, barriers, provide education, resources or support, recommendations for health system acceptance of MSM and their need for healthcare, and recommendation on getting MSM to test for HIV. Personal barriers identified by MSM were fear of knowing, disrupt lifestyle, fear of disclosure; disrupt lifestyle and busy lifestyle. Barriers related to providers that were mentioned by MSM were provider stigma, lack of confidentiality, male providers= more attitude, poor provider attitude, busy lifestyle and delayed health care services.

Conclusion

In conclusion, MSM in Dodoma City and others around Tanzania need resources and support to help them seek testing for HIV. As many mentioned, they need trained providers who have learned the importance of confidentiality, understand who MSM are and can better support them when they go in for HIV testing without attitude and stigma. MSM also believe that their families also need to get educated so that they can better support them once they find out they are HIV positive and not stigmatize them.

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