Barriers to HIV testing in Guatemala: A Qualitative Study

Authors

  • Lars Margolis College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, USA
  • Narda Medina Clinica Familiar Luis Angel Garcia, Guatemala
  • Kimberly Gon Department of Family & Social Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center & Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
  • Brian Hagan Department of Family and Social Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, New York, USA
  • Kevin McKenna Department of Family and Social Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, New York, USA
  • Blanca Samayoa School of Pharmacy, Universidad de San Carlos, Ciudad de Guatemala, Guatemala, Asociación de Salud Integral, Clínica Familiar Luis Ángel García, Hospital General San Juan de Dios, Guatemala City, Guatemala
  • Karla Patricia Alonzo Pacheco Asociación de Salud Integral, Clínica Familiar Luis Ángel García, Hospital General San Juan de Dios, Cuidad de Guatemala, Guatemala
  • Eduardo Arathoon Asociación de Salud Integral, Clínica Familiar Luis Ángel García, Hospital General San Juan de Dios, Cuidad de Guatemala, GuatemalaFaculty of Medicine, San Carlos University, Guatemala City, Guatemala
  • Matthew Anderson Department of Family and Social Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, New York, USA

Abstract

Background: Early detection and treatment decreases HIV transmission rates and leads to risk reduction in those who are diagnosed. HIV-infected Guatemalans typically present with late-stage disease. Objective: We employed qualitative methods to explore barriers to HIV testing in Guatemala. Methods: In depth, qualitative interviews were conducted in an HIV testing and treatment facility in Guatemala City. These were analyzed using the methods of Grounded Theory. Results: Four major barriers impeded HIV testing in our subjects: psychological factors, stigma/discrimination, gender roles/machismo, and systemic barriers to care. Many of our patients’ fears were grounded in a reality of discrimination, while the systemic problems of the healthcare system reflected misunderstandings and fears on the part of healthcare workers. Discussion: Our findings are consonant with the international literature. Our narrative suggested potential interventions; presenting HIV testing as a way to “save one’s life” instead of an “automatic death sentence” might foster HIV testing and earlier diagnosis

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Published

2017-01-07

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 1 (2017)

Section

Original Research

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