The ELMA Unfinished Business Project in South West Uganda

While Uganda achieved significant reduction in new HIV infections among children by 2014, pediatric antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage has been slow. By June 2014, 27% of HIV-infected children were receiving ART, compared to 52% of HIV-positive adults in Uganda.1 By December 2014, only 42% of children and adolescents estimated to be living with HIV were enrolled in care and treatment programs in Uganda.1 Factors contributing to the low rates included poor levels of pediatric HIV testing services in facilities; only 56% of HIV-exposed infants were tested in 2012 and 2013. There was limited knowledge regarding pediatric and adolescent provider-initiated HIV testing and counseling (PITC) among health workers, and lack of standard protocols in health facilities to guide implementation of PITC.

To close the adult-pediatric HIV treatment gap, the ELMA Foundation provided funds to support implementation of activities that would accelerate pediatric HIV case identification, ensure linkage to ART, and improve the quality of chronic HIV care and treatment services for children and adolescents.