Accessing HIV care services by key populations - An Ubuntu philosophy reflection

Key populations are disproportionately affected by HIV despite the significant decrease in new HIV infections in Africa. They experience challenges like stigma and discrimination as they interface with the healthcare system. This results in reduced access to HIV care services for key populations. Therefore, the attainment of HIV epidemic control may not be easily realised if these gaps are not addressed.

To explore and synthesise factors associated with accessing HIV care services by key populations, as well as make a reflection of this process using Ubuntu philosophy.

An integrative literature review was conducted on studies published between 2014 and 2024. An electronic search was performed on several databases. Examples of key phrases that were utilised for the search included Africa, HIV care services, key populations and Ubuntu. The studies included were qualitative and quantitative from peer-reviewed journals and restricted to Africa.

The following themes emerged: non-inclusive healthcare environment, attitudes of healthcare workers and stigma and discrimination. These findings illustrate the challenges and barriers affecting access to HIV care services for key populations.

The insights from this review call for a paradigm shift in the training programmes of healthcare providers in Southern Africa.Contribution: Given the challenges that affect key populations as they access HIV care services, in-service and pre-service training of healthcare providers should incorporate the humane values of Ubuntu.