CSOs seek integration of TB, HIV, and Malaria services into a single care framework in Akwa Ibom

Civil Society Organisations, Lawyers Alert and the Media Health Organisation (MHR) have called on Akwa Ibom State government to integrate Tuberculosis, Malaria and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) response into a single comprehensive care framework.

They noted that such approach would not only improve resource utilization but ensure holistic care for patients with co-existing conditions.

Addressing a virtual press conference over the weekend, the president of Lawyers Alert, Dr Rommy Mom and his counterpart at MHR, Alu Azege noted that the groups came up with the call following a comprehensive situational analysis conducted under the Gender Equality Fund (GEF) project in the State.

Mom said the survey showed over reliance on traditional treatment over modern medicine as well as frequent stockouts of medication in the health facilities.

He, therefore, called on government, CSOs and private entities to collaborate in addressing the root cause of the drift, the funding gaps and improve the availability of essential medications and diagnostic tools.

He also noted the gender disparities and stigma in TB, HIV, and Malaria response for women in the State and called for enhanced visibility and enforcement of existing health policies as well as provision of economic support and empowerment programs for them to reduce financial dependency and stigma.

Mom further noted that strengthening the capacity of women-led organizations and community health champions to advocate for gender-sensitive healthcare and challenge harmful cultural norms should be prioritized.

The statement in parts, “Lawyers Alert and MHR call on the Akwa Ibom State Government, healthcare providers, civil society organizations, and international partners to prioritize gender-transformative approaches in addressing the healthcare challenges identified in the report.

“Women particularly face significant barriers, including economic dependency, stigma, and caregiving responsibilities, which limit their ability to access timely healthcare.

“Stigma associated with HIV and TB discourages women from seeking care, while cultural and religious beliefs often lead to reliance on traditional remedies over modern healthcare.

“Government should address the root causes of reliance on traditional treatment over modern medicine, as well as the frequent stockouts of medications, we can ensure a more cohesive and effective system that equitably provides access to prevention, treatment, and care services.”

CSOs seek integration of TB, HIV, Malaria services into single care framework