Provision of care following prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission services in resource-limited settings

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the provision of care for mother and child after institution of prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV services.

Design: As part of an effort to improve services, we undertook a review of our multicountry PMTCT program.

Methods: Review of key indicators from our PMTCT database and reporting practices from January 2005 to June 2006 throughout 18 resource-limited countries.

Results: 1 066 606 pregnant women were counseled and tested, and 102 336 tested HIV-positive. Antiretroviral prophylaxis was dispensed to 81 384 mothers and 52 342 HIV-exposed infants. From available reporting, 1388 pregnant women were dispensed antiretroviral drugs for treatment and 9060 children received cotrimoxazole prophylaxis at 6 weeks.

Conclusions: PMTCT services are integrated into maternal-child health services but adult and pediatric care and treatment programs often function independently, without coordination or linkages. Integrating care into maternal-child health services and linking mother's HIV status to child are necessary for HIV-infected mothers and HIV-exposed children to receive appropriate follow-up and treatment.