The Legislative and Policy Gaps in the National HIV and AIDS, STI Policy, 2004-2014, Ghana ()
ABSTRACT
By 2003, 350,000 persons lived with HIV/AIDS in Ghana with an average
drop of 15,640 over 8 years. In 2011, approximately 224,878 persons lived with
HIV/AIDS, which is expected to drop to 221,884 by 2015. We think the estimated 2994
drop over 4 years is pedestrian. We attribute the lackluster performance to the
haphazard HIV and AIDS, STI Policy from 2004 through 2013. We considered the
Ghana HIV/AIDS and STI Policy published (NACP/GHS, 2013) “as is” to isolate the gaps in the policy,
looking at the provision of judicial and legal mechanisms for testing,
treatment and counseling. We also investigated the national policy on partner
notification, names reporting, and expedited partner therapy, in the case of
MSM and young people as provided for in the policy. Finally, we looked at
issues affecting stigmatization and discrimination. The investigation consisted
of the review of the Revised National HIV and AIDS, STI Policy of
August 2004 through 2013. We also undertook a documentary review of
publications on the topic. There are systemic problems in the policy design,
which has weakened the thrust of the national control program. The policy is
unsystematic and inconsistent with international best practice in combating
communicable diseases. It may not maximize the number of persons who are aware
of their HIV status. It may not increase the number of HIV infected persons who
receive care, and may not prevent new infections. It is unlikely that by 2015
even the low 2994 drop over four years would be sustained particularly with the
current rationing of ART drugs in the nation. Recommendations are made to,
perhaps, inform policy.
Share and Cite:
Norman, I. , Kweku, M. , Kye-Duodu, G. , Der, J. , Awiah, B. and Binka, F. (2015) The Legislative and Policy Gaps in the National HIV and AIDS, STI Policy, 2004-2014, Ghana.
Beijing Law Review,
6, 311-319. doi:
10.4236/blr.2015.64027.