Challenges Facing Volunteers Who Are On The Uptake Of Antiretrovirals (Arvs): A Case Study Of Central Division, Narok North Sub County

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to determine challenges facing volunteers who are on the uptake of Anti-Retrovirals. The specific objectives of the study were; to establish how adherence to ARV drugs affects volunteers on uptake of ARVs drugs, to determine effects of high cost of ARV drugs on the volunteers on the uptake of ARVs drugs, to find out how lack of proper nutrition affects volunteers on uptake of ARVs drugs and to find out the solutions to the challenges facing volunteers on the uptake of ARVs drugs in Central Division, Narok North Sub-County. The study is significant as it brings to afore critical issues concerning ARVs usage and the factors affecting the volunteers within the area of study. It also remains a useful self-examination tool for reflection among the Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) and also be used as a reference in academia as well as the AIDS Control Board in Kenya and beyond. Questionnaire was the main data collection instrument. The target population for the study was 370 and the sample size was 37 respondents. The findings of the study revealed that; adhering to ARV drugs, lack of proper nutrition and high cost of ARV drugs are major challenges affecting volunteers on the uptake of ARVs drugs. The study recommends that the health ministry in conjunction with County governments should avails plan for routine mobile clinic services to bring the services nearer, this help the ART’s volunteers in adhering to the medication and receiving diet supplement regularly. The two service providers should also take a role on educating the public on the relevance of offering social and other supports to ARVs Volunteers because the well-being of the society is equal to the well-being of its members.