Health system factors influencing timely uptake of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for HIV exposed infants in Apac General Hospital in Apac. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/vw90hn02Keywords:
Timely taking of PCR, HIV exposed infants, Apac General HospitalAbstract
Background:
Health system factors play a critical role in determining whether HIV-exposed infants receive timely polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. To assess health system factors influencing timely taking of PCR for HIV exposed infants at Apac General Hospital in Apac district-Uganda
Methodology:
A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 32 HIV-positive mothers with infants aged 1–18 months in EID departments at Apac General Hospital. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics in Microsoft Excel, presented in tables, charts, and figures.
Findings:
The majority of respondents were 31 years and above, 31.3% (10), and only 15.6% (05) were aged 15–19 years. 62.5% (20) had received reminders through SMS, phone calls, or home visits for their infant’s PCR testing, while 37.5% (12) had not. Most respondents of 93.8% (30) reported that PCR testing services and supplies were consistently available, while only 6.2% (2) experienced shortages. 43.8% (14) walk about 5-10 kilometres to the health facility, and only 21.8% (7) walk a distance less than 1 Kilometer. 65.6% (21) always get information about PCR from health workers, and only 6.3% (2) rarely get information on PCR testing at the facility.
Conclusion:Availability of test kits, effective communication, and reminder systems promote uptake, though distance still limits access.
Recommendations: Strengthen integration of PCR testing with routine maternal-child health services.References
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Copyright (c) 2026 Babra Ayugii, Lamex Ogwal, Monica Fidela Odella, Ronald Awoi (Author)
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