BARRIERS TO ACCESSING COMPREHENSIVE CARE FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze the barriers that prevent access to comprehensive care for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) within a specialized unit. It is an exploratory qualitative study conducted at a center specialized in PLWHA, other STIs, and viral hepatitis in a city in the Northeast. The sample was determined by response saturation, and the data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire administered to users over 18 years old. The interpretation followed Thematic Content Analysis. Seropositivity affects users in many aspects, including access to comprehensive care, which is hindered by obstacles such as social stigma, technical-relational skills, structural shortages, service disorganization, lack of self-care, and failures in healthcare practices. Therefore, it is necessary to discuss this topic with the aim of promoting positive changes in healthcare.