Accessibility of ART in the farming community of OR Tambo District Municipality in the Eastern Cape province

Abstract

Background: South Africa accounts for 14% of all new HIV infections representing the highest annual rate of new HIV infections globally. In addition, South Africa is home to 21% of the worldwide HIV burden, with 7.97 million people living with HIV. HIV not only affects the health of those living with the virus but also impacts their economic well-being.

Aim: The study aimed to develop an in-depth understanding of the accessibility of anti-retroviral treatment in the farming communities of the OR Tambo District Municipality in the Eastern Cape province.

Setting: The study was conducted in two local municipalities of OR Tambo District Municipality in the Eastern Cape province.

Methods: A qualitative approach was used to explore and describe the accessibility of anti-retroviral treatment (ART) in the farming communities.

Results: The study revealed that travelling long distances, transport costs, lack of transportation and traditional beliefs were the major barriers for farming communities to access ART.

Conclusion: The findings of the study propose that poor access to ART in farming communities is linked to socio-cultural status, weak social support and limiting socioeconomic status.

Contribution: The Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Health’s management can use the study’s findings for recommendations to the National Department of Health management on how to improve HIV roll-out initiatives.