Table 2 Themes and sub-themes of stigmatization of HIV/AIDS in healthcare system
Themes | Sub-Themes |
|---|---|
1. Causes of stigma | a) Healthcare providers fear of being infected |
| Â | b) Healthcare providers' views on sexual orientation, drug abuse, prostitution and adultery |
2. Forms of stigma in healthcare settings | a) Refusal of care |
| Â | b) Sub-optimal care |
| Â | c) Excessive precautions and physical distancing |
| Â | d) Humiliation or verbal and non-verbal psychological abuse and blaming |
3. Consequences of stigma | a) Avoiding or delaying seeking healthcare |
| Â | b) Not adhering to HIV treatment |
| Â | c) Refusing disclosure of HIV status when seeking care |
| Â | d) Feeling undeserving of care and diminished motivation to stay healthy |
| Â | e) Using violence and feeling vengeful |
| Â | f) Using spiritual healing as a substitute for conventional care |
| Â | g) Feeling emotional stress |