Care Analysis Themes

Each of the ECI Ten Areas of Care were considered from the perspective of four common Care Analysis Themes.

Epidemiology and Needs of Target Populations
Analysis of the epidemiology of HIV provides information on the current status of the epidemic in a specific country or region, identifies the populations most affected, determines patterns of transmission, and projects future trends. Assessments of the care needs of people living with AIDS and care-seeking behavior requires that this information be part of the evaluation. In addition, identification of the needs of populations such as women and youth are highlighted.

Costs and Economics
The evaluation of the costs of the HIV/AIDS epidemic identifies expenses that affect the health care system, PLWHA and their families, particular sectors of the economy, and the nation as a whole. The economic assessment of costs associated with providing care and treatment is fundamental to the effective allocation of limited resources by government and other organizations.

Human Rights and Ethics
Examination of the state of human rights and HIV/AIDS care clarifies the legal and political context and the extent to which relevant laws, policies, programs, and practices protect the rights and dignity of PLWHA and their families. Of primary concern to ECI are questions of stigma, discrimination, and participation, as these relate to the utilization of services and to quality of life. Ethical assessments should include an examination of value systems, identification of moral justifications for current policies, and evaluation of ethical codes of conduct in the design and implementation of research and the extent to which those codes are observed.

Involvement of People Living with HIV and AIDS
The Greater Involvement of People Living With or Affected by HIV or AIDS (GIPA) Principles underscores the belief that effective and ethical national responses can only be achieved through the involvement of PLWHA at all levels, including planning, design, and implementation of prevention and care interventions .