Exploring the needs of men who have sex with men (MSM) in HIV services in Gaborone city and selected surrounding villages in Botswana

Abstract

There is reliable evidence that men who have sex with men (MSM) are at an increased risk of HIV infection compared to other men of reproductive age. However, there is limited data on the proportion of MSM reached by HIV services globally. This may be compounded by the lack of explicit programmes to curb HIV among MSM. MSM still endure varied forms of stigma and discrimination worldwide, with some countries criminalizing their sexual orientation. In many countries including Botswana, research on MSM is also very low; and there is lack of data on the efforts, risks, challenges and successes in HIV prevention among MSM. The purpose of the proposed study is to explore HIV service needs for men who have sex with men (MSM) in Gaborone and selected surrounding villages in Botswana. The study will use a qualitative descriptive approach. Data will be collected from MSM and HIV care providers to help explore the specific needs of MSM in HIV services. MSM participants will be sampled through purposive and snowball sampling techniques whereas HIV care providers (which include registered nurses, medical doctors, pharmacy personnel, psychologists and lay counselors) will be sampled using convenience sampling technique. The study will target a total of twenty (20) participants for each group. The proposed study is guided by Kristen Swanson’s Caring Model. Data will be analyzed using content analysis method. Findings of the study could provide empirical evidence to support advocacy among groups already putting pressure on policy makers to openly address MSM HIV prevention and care; inform health care curricula developers on the critical areas of need in HIV services for MSM, as well as inform organizations providing HIV services on the needs of health care workers in providing quality HIV services for MSM in Botswana.