Over 10,000 prison inmates in Vietnam will now have access to HIV care and services, after AIDS Healthcare Foundation launched new clinics in Thai Nguyen and Phu Tho provinces in partnership with local organizations on Aug. 3 and 4, respectively. The initiative will also serve the residents of local communities.
The two provincial prisons previously had limited resources for new HIV patients, such as providing essential lab tests for monitoring side effects caused by antiretroviral drugs. The clinics will help alleviate that, as well as provide overall HIV testing, care and treatment and ensuring proper follow-up.
“These projects will save more lives and increase the quality of life for people who are living with HIV/AIDS,” said Deputy Director of Phu Tho Department of Health Dr. Le Quang Tho. “We highly appreciate the contribution of AHF Vietnam for fighting to end AIDS, both here and across the world.”
AHF’s presence will also include treatment for opportunistic infections and provides training for additional healthcare staff to allow the clinics to boost their testing numbers.
“AHF is here for all members of our communities, regardless of their standing within them,” said AHF Asia Bureau Chief Dr. Chhim Sarath. “Our goal is to wipe out HIV/AIDS everywhere, and this initiative will allow us to treat a segment of society that is often forgotten.”
AHF has been operating in Vietnam since 2007 and has 8,398 patients in care.
