Peranan Pengurus Divisi HIV Yayasan Medan Plus dalam Menghapus Stigma dan Diskriminasi terhadap Orang dengan HIV/AIDS (ODHA)

Abstract

HIV/AIDS data still shows the presence of HIV infection cases and AIDS cases as well as cases of death due to AIDS. HIV infection does not only occur in risky behavior, but also in people who do not engage in risky behavior. One of the obstacles in HIV/AIDS prevention and control is the problem of stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS, which is still difficult to eliminate. Stigma raises false myths in the community that lead to discriminatory treatment that can hinder the care, support, and treatment of HIV/AIDS, resulting in a decrease in the physical, psychological, and social conditions of people living with HIV/AIDS. HIV/AIDS causes problems for both people living with HIV/AIDS and the community, because HIV has the potential to infect anyone through HIV transmission methods, resulting in new cases of HIV/AIDS. This has become a concern for the Medan Plus Foundation HIV Division Management to fight for changes for the better, namely trying to remove stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS. This study aims to determine how the role of the Medan Plus Foundation HIV Division Management in removing stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS. This research uses descriptive research methods with a qualitative approach, and uses primary data collection techniques through observation, documentation, interviews with informants selected by purposive sampling, and uses secondary data collection techniques through the collection of materials that can support primary data to achieve research objectives. This study found that the role of the Medan Plus Foundation HIV Division Management in removing stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS is through outreach and support; formation and strengthening of peer support groups; network building, socialization, and advocacy. Finally, this study expects the government, health institutions, affected individuals, people living with HIV/AIDS support organizations, and other parties to increase awareness and work together in addressing HIV/AIDS issues in order to build a conducive environment without stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS in accessing the care, support, and treatment services needed.