HIV/STI PREVENTION PROGRAMS - DOH Programs

Summary

This video discusses the HIV and STI prevention program in the Philippines, emphasizing the increasing rates of HIV infections, which now average 31 new cases per day. The program, created by the Department of Health, aims to reduce new infections and address the stigma surrounding HIV. It offers free HIV testing, counseling, and medication for those diagnosed, with a focus on high-risk populations. The goal is to raise awareness, reduce transmission, and provide support to affected individuals. The video also outlines the legal framework, key activities, and benefits of the program, encouraging proactive health testing and community engagement.

Takeaways

• 😀 The HIV/STD prevention program in the Philippines aims to reduce new HIV infections to less than 7,000 annually by 2022.
• 😀 HIV is considered a 'silent epidemic' in the Philippines, with confirmed cases steadily increasing.
• 😀 The program is based on the **Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act** (Republic Act 11166) to prevent the spread of HIV and other STDs.
• 😀 The overall mission of the program is to improve access to healthcare services, including HIV counseling, testing, and treatment.
• 😀 Free HIV counseling and testing services are available to the public, with follow-up services provided based on test results.
• 😀 Condom use is promoted as the most effective family planning method, especially in high-risk environments like entertainment establishments.
• 😀 Educational outreach programs target young people and community groups to raise awareness and reduce stigma around HIV.
• 😀 The Philippine National AIDS Council (PNAC) is responsible for coordinating and creating guidelines for the HIV prevention program.
• 😀 People between the ages of 13 to 64 who are sexually active are encouraged to get tested for HIV regularly.
• 😀 HIV-positive individuals can live normal lives with proper medication, including anti-retroviral drugs, provided free of charge through **PhilHealth**.
• 😀 The program includes training for healthcare workers to improve HIV counseling, testing, and care, aiming for better management of the epidemic.

Q & A

What is the current rate of HIV infections in the Philippines?

As of 2018, there are 31 confirmed HIV cases per day in the Philippines, averaging 1,000 cases per month. The number of cases is steadily increasing, making it an alarming issue.

Why is HIV considered a 'silent epidemic' in the Philippines?

HIV is considered a 'silent epidemic' because while it is spreading rapidly, many people remain unaware of the risks and the growing danger of the infection in the community.

What is the primary goal of the HIV prevention program in the Philippines?

The main goal of the HIV prevention program is to reverse the trend of the HIV epidemic by reducing the estimated annual infections to less than 7,000 cases by 2022.

How does the HIV prevention program aim to achieve its goal?

The program aims to reduce the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among high-risk populations and the general public, while also mitigating the impact on individuals, families, and communities.

What is the legal foundation for the HIV prevention program in the Philippines?

The HIV prevention program is legally based on Republic Act No. 11166, also known as the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act. This law provides the framework for implementing HIV prevention and management in the country.

What are the key objectives of the HIV prevention program's vision?

The key objectives of the vision are to achieve zero new infections, reduce stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV, and prevent AIDS-related deaths.

What services are included under the HIV prevention program?

The program offers services such as free voluntary HIV counseling and testing, condom use promotion, education and outreach programs, multi-sectoral coordination, and empowerment initiatives for communities.

How does the government support individuals who are diagnosed with HIV?

The government supports HIV-positive individuals by providing free testing, medications, and treatments through the PhilHealth insurance system, ensuring that those diagnosed can manage the condition and live normal lives.

What are some of the training programs included in the HIV prevention program?

Training programs include HIV counseling and testing training for healthcare workers, as well as primary HIV care training for health services providers to enhance their capacity to handle HIV cases and treatments.

Who should be tested for HIV according to the CDC recommendations?

The CDC recommends that all individuals aged 13 to 64 who are sexually active get tested for HIV at least once. More frequent testing is advised for high-risk groups such as sexually active gay and bisexual men, as well as pregnant women.