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Improve access to treatment for PLWHIV through the implementation of PODI

Posted on 27/01/2020 - Category: RAFG Activity ...

Service Yezu Mwiza, in addition to its mobile clinic, wanted to reduce much more, the journey of its beneficiaries so that they obtain ART as close as possible to their residence and opted for the implementation of this strategy of PODI ( community ART distribution points) starting with the intervention zones of KIRIRI and RUZIBA as pilot sites.

The 2016 HIV care guidelines include an innovative strategy for community ART distribution points (PODI). To set up these distribution points, it is important to first go to the identification of stable patients from all SYM sites, and choose the ones in need of PODI more than others.

The choice of sites was motivated by a large number of patients stable compared to others. In order for these patients to get ART, it takes time and travel costs and it affects retention of ART patients. It is in this logic that Service Yezu Mwiza has just set up PODI in order not only to facilitate supplies but also to reduce the burden of clinical services while not compromising the quality of care provided to patients. Activities can be facilitated by stable patient managers supported by the SYM psychosocial care team.
KIRIRI site has 5 PODI: Sororezo, Rweza, Muyira, Kirombwe and Kamesa, while RUZIBA site has 2 PODI: Kanyosha and Ruziba.

That ART distribution system has many advantages including quick, easy, non-stigmatizing and free access. PODI help to empower patients in managing their disease by giving them more responsibility. However, they go to the health facility themselves when necessary and receive a 6-month ART prescription and a 3-month supply.
Patients who do not show up for their appointments will be sought by their peers by telephone or home visit with the help of health mediators from Service Yezu Mwiza.

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