This paper tries to assess possible benefits and challenges for integration of HIV with health programmes in Indian context. Integration of HIV with other health programmes and vice versa is very important to contain the HIV/AIDS pandemic and other diseases as well as providing sustainable HIV services. The National HIV/AIDS Policy and recently launched National AIDS Control Programme-IV (2012-2017) guidelines by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India have clearly stated the need for integration of HIV programme with other health programmes. The worldwide literatures and proven interventions in different settings describe that there are ample benefits for the health service integration at individual level, provider’s level, policy and program level. Further an integrated programme would explicitly address the combined outcomes, benefits and challenges and making these connections clear can help people to receive improved services for longer run.
Key words: Challenges, HIV prevention, Health programme, Integration, Implications, India
|