The family plays a crucial role in offering a support system for individuals living with HIV, particularly those in need of mental health assistance, according to Patrick Morgam, CEO of Empower Pacific Fiji. Morgam expressed his concerns in response to inquiries about families that distance themselves from relatives diagnosed with HIV, including instances where some refuse to visit sick family members in the hospital.
He emphasized that these patients require family support the most as they deal with the emotional impact of their illness. “Family support is essential for their sustainability, and when families neglect them, it increases the patient’s stress levels,” he noted. This lack of support can lead to heightened anxiety and potential instability for those affected, resulting in further complications.
Morgam also indicated that Empower Pacific Fiji plans to release a statement outlining the counseling services available to HIV patients and the number of individuals utilizing these resources.
Dr. Rachel Devi, the Head of Family Health at the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, highlighted the existing collaboration between the ministry and various civil society organizations. She mentioned that the ministry has worked closely with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to provide significant support and training.
The trained NGOs, including Medical Services Pacific and universities, are tasked with conducting testing on-site. Dr. Devi pointed out that tertiary students have also been trained to perform point of care testing, extending their services beyond clinics to community outreach programs, catering to diverse populations. She emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing these challenges as society moves forward.