Foster care of HIV-positive children in the United States

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Social Work

Background:

• In 1991, a significant number of children diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) required foster care services.
• Existing foster care policies and practices varied widely across states, potentially impacting the quality of care for HIV-positive children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the national landscape of foster care for children living with HIV in 1991.
• To identify existing state-level policies, recruitment strategies, and training protocols for families caring for HIV-positive children in foster care.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive national survey was distributed to state agencies responsible for foster care in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. Territories.
• A 100% response rate was achieved, with data collected on the number of HIV-positive children in foster care, policy specifics, recruitment measures, and training content.

Main Results:

• In 1991, 1,149 HIV-positive children were reported in foster care nationwide.
• While most states had general foster care policies, only 21 had specific policies for HIV-positive children, and just seven mandated specialized family recruitment.
• Training for foster families covered crucial topics like confidentiality, behavioral management, and emotional support, but significant gaps in specific recruitment and policy existed.

Conclusions:

• The study revealed critical deficiencies in specialized policies and recruitment for HIV-positive children in foster care in 1991.
• Enhanced training and dedicated recruitment strategies are essential to adequately support foster families caring for children with HIV.
• A national dialogue is recommended to address the identified challenges and improve foster care outcomes for this vulnerable population.