Experiences of stigma and discrimination in healthcare towards people living with HIV: how can this be addressed?

Abstract

Stigma and discrimination towards people living with HIV remains a global challenge within healthcare today. This article discusses the experiences of a student nurse involved in the care of HIV-positive individuals within a specialist area compared to a non-specialist area. A literature review examines the relationships between HIV-related stigma experiences and depression, low ART adherence and multiple HIV-related health issues. The findings confirm that HIV-related stigma in healthcare is largely caused by lack of knowledge regarding methods of transmission and the need for education to address the issue.