چکیده (انگلیسی):

Background:The HIV/AIDS health challenge continues to ravage many resource-constrained countries of the
world. Approximately 75 % of all the global HIV/AIDS related deaths totaling 1.6 (1.4–1.9) million in 2012 occurred
in sub-Saharan Africa, Uganda contributed 63,000 (52,000–81,000) to these deaths. Most of the morbidity and
mortality associated with HIV/AIDS can be averted if individuals with HIV/AIDS have improved access to HIV care
and treatment. The aim of this study therefore, was to explore the factors associated with access to HIV care
services among HIV seropositive clients identified by a home based HIV counseling and testing program in Kumi
district, eastern Uganda.
Methods:In a cross sectional study conducted in February 2009, we explored predictor variables: socio-demographics,
health facility and community factors related to access to HIV care and treatment. The main outcome measure was
reported receipt of cotrimoxazole for prophylaxis.
Results:The majority [81.1 % (284/350)] of respondents receivedcotrimoxazole prophylaxis (indicating access to HIV
care). The main factors associated with access to HIV care include; age 25–34 years (AOR = 5.1, 95 % CI: 1.5–17.1), male sex
(AOR=2.3,95%CI:1.2–4.4), urban residence (AOR = 2.5, CI: 1.1–5.9) and lack of family support (AOR = 0.5, CI: 0.2–0.9).
Conclusions:There was relatively high access to HIV care and treatment services at health facilities for HIV positive clients
referred from the Kumi home based HIV counseling and testingprogram. The factors associated with access to HIV care
services include; age group, sex, residence and having a supportive family. Stakeholders involved in providing HIV care
and treatment services in similar settings should therefore consider these socio-demographic variables as they formulate
interventions to improve access to HIV care services.