Developing a framework of practice for social workers in HIV/AIDS Management in India

Abstract

Antiretroviral therapy is the panacea to the management of the HIV infection, improving the longevity of the person (people) living with HIV (PLHIV) and reducing transmission. However, the socio-psycho-cultural factors and consequent behaviour that contribute to the spread of the virus still prevail, causing new infections. These factors are addressed by social workers who are a part of a multidisciplinary team and use transdisciplinary practise competencies. Evidence-based research establishes the need to develop theory and practice for social work students to address the spectrum of psycho-socio-cultural issues affecting PLHIV. Social workers require a roadmap to steer them in helping the PLHIV. The present paper develops a multistage multilevel framework of practice that addresses the challenges emerging at each stage of infection and treatment. It also suggests possible approaches that social workers may consider at each level of intervention ranging from intra-personal level to environmental and policy level. Based on the Indian context, the framework of practice in this article emerges from qualitative and quantitative findings of the research that was conducted to understand the factors impacting risk behaviour and ART adherence among PLHIV. The study found that issues are rooted at intrapersonal, interpersonal, institutional, policy, and environmental levels and influence the risk and treatment behaviour of PLHIV. Hence the researcher developed a framework to help social workers devise intervention plans for the PLHIV.