An exploration of factors affecting voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) amongst employees in the private sector : a company case study.
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Date
2010
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Abstract
Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) is known as the key component of HIVprevention
and treatment programmes in workplace settings. The main objective of this study was
to explore factors affecting the uptake of VCT amongst employees in the private sector. This study
was also indirectly aimed in examining the effectiveness of HIV-prevention and treatment
programmes in workplace settings.
The Social cognitive theory (SCT) was adopted as the core theoretical framework in this
study. The SCT explains behaviour change as a complex phenomenon and a product of multiple,
complex factors embedded on the individual’s characteristic and his/her surrounding environment.
This theory recognises the strength of other health promotion theories such as the health belief
model (HBM), theory of reasoned action (TRA) in explaining behaviour change, but it mostly
helps to provide a more holistic and coherent understanding of the complex factors affecting VCT
uptake.
This was a qualitative case study. Individual, semi-structured interviews were utilised to
collect data from 6 male and 4 female participants, who are employees of a courier company
operating around Durban. This company implemented an HIV/AIDS policy about 10 years ago,
with an aim to introduce HIV-prevention and treatment initiatives, and to facilitate easy access to
these initiatives within the workplace setting.
Data was analysed using thematic analysis. Themes were analysed and discussed in relation to
the topic of the study. Factors that affect VCT in the workplace were categorised thematically and
critically discussed as findings of the study.
Despite the convenient and easily accessible VCT and ART initiatives, rapid testing and onsite
nature of VCT campaigns, the uptake of VCT appeared to be relatively poor within the
compnay. The perceived lack of confidentiality regarding results, fears of stigma and
discrimination, as well as organisational factors, were identified as barriers to the success of HIVprevention
and treatment initiatives in this company. In light of these findings, the study
recommends measures that might help improve service delivery. The study also contributes to the
body of knowledge with respect to challenges facing HIV-prevention and treatment initiatives in
workplace settings.
Description
Thesis (M.Soc.Sci.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2010.
Keywords
AIDS (Disease)--Economic aspects--South Africa., AIDS (Disease)--Prevention., Theses--Psychology.