Bridging HR gap in HIV/TB programmes

The Monitor Editor | Tuesday February 6, 2024 06:00

Contrary to common assumptions, these crucial initiatives are grappling with a shortage of personnel, with approximately seven HIV programmes employing only two or three individuals each. This staffing scarcity becomes more alarming when considering the disparities in commitment and advocacy between HIV and TB programmes.

The separation of these vital initiatives into distinct departments due to staffing shortages has led to unclear organisational structures, hindering effective coordination in tackling these interconnected public health challenges. The urgent call for proper monitoring and updating of strategic guidelines is crucial.

The success of these programmes relies on adapting to evolving healthcare landscapes, embracing innovative testing methods, and ensuring essential population services are readily available. Achieving the 95-95-95 target necessitates a comprehensive approach, encompassing not only HIV self-test kits and PREP but also strategic interventions like circumcision.

The concerning disparity in advocacy and commitment between HIV and TB programmes requires immediate attention. Multi-sectoral accountability for TB programmes, as outlined in national strategies, remains neglected. The shortage of pharmacists exacerbates the situation, highlighting the need for increased data capturers to enhance data collection in treatment care. This emphasises the broader need for investing in human resources (HR) to improve public health outcomes. Addressing the age distribution in the HIV population highlights the connection between HIV and non-communicable diseases.

This underscores the imperative for a holistic approach to healthcare that breaks programmatic silos. Additionally, the disproportionately low representation of children in the total TB population demands targeted efforts to bridge this gap and improve preventive measures.

While applauding the one percent prevention of mother-to-child transmission rate, the focus shifts towards areas requiring refinement. Improving adolescent-friendly HIV services and bolstering TB contact tracing are crucial steps towards comprehensive healthcare. In conclusion, addressing the staffing challenges in HIV/TB programmes is not merely an HR quality and bureaucratic concern but a crucial step towards fortifying our healthcare systems and ensuring the well-being of our communities.