HIV exceptionalism and the South African HIV and AIDS epidemic: perspectives of health care workers in Pietermaritzburg

Abstract

The limited success of HIV-testing facilities in South Africa means that many
 people are not accessing necessary antiretroviral treatment services. This
 study investigates the practical implications of HIV exceptionalism inherent in
 Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT). A semi-structured interview
 schedule was used to survey participants for their perspectives on barriers to
 HIV-testing uptake as well as the effects of exceptionalist practices at VCT
 clinics. Responses showed marked perceptions of gender differences in
 people's willingness to test and several important barriers including problems
 of access to services. Significantly, exceptionalism displayed in certain clinic
 procedures was thought to contribute to stigma, and attempts to normalise
 HIV practice in order to combat the effects of stigma were being informally
 implemented. Participants' views on routine opt-out testing were explored.
 The researcher recommended further investigation on how HIV testing and
 treatment policies can be normalised so as to reduce stigma and increase
 testing uptake.

Social Work

M.A. Sociology (Social Behaviour Studies in HIV/AIDS)