Stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings continue to hinder access to quality health services, particularly for persons living with HIV. Such behaviours not only discourage individuals from seeking care but also undermine efforts toward epidemic control and achieving universal health coverage.
To help address these challenges, the National AIDS/STI Control Programme (NACP) with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Ghana, organized a Sensitization Meeting for Healthcare Workers on the eLearning modules on Stigma and Discrimination Reduction in Accra.
The meeting brought together Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) clinic managers and nurse managers from 20 health facilities in the Greater Accra Region to enhance awareness of HIV related stigma and discrimination in healthcare delivery and promote uptake of the upcoming Continuous Professional Development (CPD)–accredited e-learning modules on stigma reduction.
In his remarks, Dr. Edward Ampratwum, Head of Inclusive Growth and Accountable Governance at UNDP Ghana, underscored the importance of addressing HIV related stigma as a barrier to development.
“Health is both a driver and an outcome of development. Yet stigma and discrimination continue to limit access to essential services. That is why UNDP Ghana, together with NACP and the GHS IT team, initiated the development of e-learning modules to equip health workers with the skills and tools to promote inclusive and respectful healthcare delivery,” he stated.
Winifred N.O Armah-Attoh, Programme Officer at Ghana Health Service (GHS), presented findings from UNDP Ghana and NACP surveys conducted across 10 health facilities in the Greater Accra Region on reducing HIV related stigma and discrimination. The assessment revealed persistent stigma-related behaviours among some healthcare workers, including fear of infection during routine procedures, excessive use of protective measures, and reluctance to provide care for key populations.
Participants were introduced to the Stigma Reduction eLearning modules, including a demonstration of its content, key features, and access procedures.
The interactive session further allowed participants to experience the pretest, and module 1 of the four-part e-learning course on reducing stigma and discrimination in health facilities.
Participants welcomed the initiative and praised its interactive approach, noting that the module offered valuable insights into addressing stigma in healthcare delivery.
Through this initiative, UNDP Ghana continues to support national partners to build an inclusive health system that upholds dignity, equality, and respect for all.
