Community-based HIV Testing and Linkage to Care in Ethnic areas of Myanmar
In ethnic areas of Myanmar, access to facility-based HIV testing services is often limited due to geographic and many other conditions. This initiative includes community-based HIV testing services and linkage to treatment by trained CBS and community-based health workers from local ethnic communities. HIV screening services are integrated into outreach activities with clear referral linkage to ART providers operated by EHOs, NGOs, and nearby public facilities.
Possible barriers under current situation
Security and Access to service constraints – the ongoing conflict and travel restrictions can disrupt outreach activities, supervision, patient referrals, and service continuity.
Stigma, Discrimination, and local governance – HIV-related stigma, combined with cultural norms in these communities, may limit the KPs from testing. Additionally, drug eradication policies in some areas create barriers to accessing PWID.
Supplies and commodities challenges – Limited access to standard test strips, self-test kits, ART, and commodities are still challenges in these areas.
HR and Capacity gaps – Community-based health workers may have limited formal training, refresher training, and minimal supervision, affecting service quality.