title: Experiences of stigmatization and discrimination in accessing health services: voices of persons living with HIV in Ghana.
abstract: Drawing on Earnshaw and Chaudoir's HIV stigma framework, this study explored the experiences of persons living with HIV and AIDS regarding stigmatization and discrimination in accessing health services. Using a qualitative research methodology, 42 participants were purposively recruited during support group meetings of persons living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) at Amasaman in Accra, Ghana. Four focus group discussions (n = 22) and 10 in-depth interviews were conducted. Discussions and interviews were audio-taped, transcribed, and categorized based on the objectives of the study. The findings indicated that PLWHAs had knowledge of stigma that was experienced through enacted, anticipated, and internalized stigma mechanisms. Evidence showed that PLWHA did not experience stigma and discrimination when they accessed services at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, the largest hospital in Ghana. However, the situation was different when they accessed services at other public health facilities. Based on the findings, implications are discussed for policy, social work, and public health practices.
authors.affiliation: a Department of Social Work , University of Ghana , Legon , Accra , Ghana.
authors.forename: Mavis
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Dako-Gyeke
authors.forename: Phyllis
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Dako-Gyeke
authors.forename: Emmanuel
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Asampong
mesh_terms: D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000523:psychology; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D005869:Ghana; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000523:psychology*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011287:Prejudice / Q000523:psychology*; D036301:Qualitative Research; D057545:Social Stigma
keywords: AIDS; Ghana; HIV; discrimination; health care providers; stigmatization