Health system challenges affecting falls prevention in persons living with HIV: perspectives from physiotherapists in four sub-Saharan regions

Prim Health Care Res Dev. 2021 Sep 13;22:e41. doi: 10.1017/S1463423620000663.ABSTRACTAIM: The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of physiotherapists in four selected regions of sub-Saharan Africa regarding health system challenges impacting the integration of physiotherapy-led falls prevention services in the primary care of persons living with HIV (PLWH).BACKGROUND: Falls may pose a significant problem among younger PLWH in low- and middle-income countries. Physiotherapists' role in optimising function and quality of life can do much in the prevention of falls in PLWH and reducing the harm that results. However, falls prevention strategies have not been implemented effectively especially in primary health care settings in sub-Saharan Africa. Physiotherapists' account of the health system challenges they encounter may provide insights into potential strategies that may be considered in optimising fall prevention for PLWH in poorly resourced settings.METHODS: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted in selected urban districts in the capital cities of four sub-Saharan African countries. In-depth interviews were conducted with 21 purposively selected physiotherapists involved in the primary care of PLWH. Audio recordings of interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using deductive thematic content analysis.FINDINGS: The main results are presented in the theme 'Health care system challenges' and in nine categories informed by the WHO health system fra...
Source: Primary Care - Category: Primary Care Authors: Source Type: research