Motivators and obstacles of voluntary counseling and testing among young people in Usigu division; the case of Got Agulu sub-district hospital

Abstract

This was a cross-sectional qualitative study with the objective of exploring factors that motivate young people to go for Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT), the obstacles they face accessing VCT and the shortcomings that make VCT unattractive. The study was conducted in Got Agulu Sub-district Hospital in Usigu division, Bondo district. It was based on the premise thatmany young people are not inspired to go for VCT. Convenient sampling method was used to identify the young people who were involved in the study while VCT staff were purposively selected based on their experience and position as VCT Counselors. Qualitative data was thematically analyzed based on the content while quantitative information done via Ms Excel and basic frequency and tables generated. The study revealed that many young people do not have confidence on the VCT process, facilities and staff and therefore, shun VCT services. The study further established that many young people are sexually active but neither consistently uses condoms nor stick to one partner making their chances of being infected with HIV high thus the fear of going for VCT. They do not have the muscle and nerve to face an IIIV positive outcome and prefer to remain ignorant and unaware because they are not confident enougb to deal with the consequences of living with HIVIAIDS. The study concludes that many young people do not go for VCT mainly because of lack of confidence and ability to deal with outcomes and low confidence on the facilities or Counselors. The study recommends that young people should be persuaded to go for VCT by highlighting the value and benefits ofVCT. In addition, providers ofVCT services should be encouraged to focus on taking the services closer to young people through outreaches (mobile VCT). while the VCT site environment and staff should offer optimum confidentiality to potential clients.