This study explores the lived experiences of African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) individuals in Alberta living with HIV/AIDS and the issues they encounter when accessing services. Interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) provided the underlying philosophy, data collection, and analysis methods. Participants self-identified after responding to recruitment posters posted at HIV/AIDS-supporting agencies in Alberta and on related social media pages. A total of 22 research informants were recruited and interviewed. Texts resulting from audio-taped interviews constituted data for analysis. Data analysis yielded four broad themes, with stigma, discrimination, and racism serving as common threads in the lived experiences of ACB individuals accessing HIV/AIDS services in Alberta. This perspective advocates for intentional policy and practice changes that focus on diversity, equity, and inclusivity in protocols governing how ACB individuals access HIV/AIDS care in Alberta.
Healthcare lived experiences of African, Caribbean and Black individuals in Alberta living with HIV/AIDS: A phenomenological study
Abstract
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Future research / gaps identified: Evaluate policy changes and resource mobilization initiated to address the issues stated in the findings. Integration timeline: All participants were Canadian citizens, with an average length of HIV/AIDS status of 9 years. Key findings: 1) Overall, ACB community members experience high levels of mistrust towards the healthcare system in Alberta. This lack of trust reduces the likelihood of engaging in HIV treatment and care. 2) Racism, discrimination, and stigma continue to profoundly impact the health and health-seeking behaviours of ACB community members. These impacts manifest through direct and indirect pathways, including disparities in access, poor quality of care received, and adverse treatment outcomes. 3) At the individual level, the fear of being stigmatized prevents ACB individuals from seeking care, accessing testing, disclosing their status, and adhering to treatment. 4) Participant experiences were grouped into four broad themes, which were: i) Health literacy and empowerment; ii) Non-belonging and invisibility; iii) Barriers to care and adherence; and iv) Psychosocial life impacts. Key recommendations: 1) Develop greater sensitivity and knowledge among healthcare and service providers, such as providing culturally appropriate support services for the ACB population living with HIV/AIDS. 2) Create a comprehensive community awareness program to address discrimination, anti-Black racism, and stigma. 3) Expand efforts to recognize and mitigate barriers to care, such as poverty, accessibility, and settlement issues Open access: No Community organizations: n/a Key populations: African, Caribbean and Black Albertans living with HIV/AIDS Location: Alberta, not otherwise specified