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Showing posts from September, 2024

Prioritizing Privacy and Support: Shifting the Focus of HIV Programs in Botswana

Good afternoon, Champions. I have noticed an increasing trend among development partners funding HIV programs to require that patient reach forms include not only ID numbers and age but also, in some cases, signatures. While I understand the need for accurate data collection, this approach raises concerns about client privacy. Collecting such sensitive information crosses a line, as it could compromise data safety and confidentiality, making clients more vulnerable to potential breaches or misuse of their personal information. Additionally, there is an ongoing push to identify more undiagnosed positives in the community, even though Botswana has already surpassed the 95% target of people living with HIV (PLHIV) being diagnosed. This focus seems increasingly misaligned with our current context, where a shift in priorities would be more effective. It is time to engage our funders in meaningful conversations about these shifting needs. We should now prioritize investments in programs desi...