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GOALS OF HIV/AIDS SERVICES IN BRITISH COLUMBIA A
Harm Reduction Approach
British Columbia's Framework for Action on HIV/AIDS promotes a harm
reduction approach to stemming the spread of HIV and treating people affected
by HIV/AIDS. Harm
reduction involves taking action to reduce the harmful effects of behavior, without
necessarily requiring people to abstain from their behavior. A range of programs,
services and interventions are provided that decrease HIV risk and substance misuse,
increasing health and well-being. Harm
reduction strategies may include needle exchange services and methadone maintenance
programs. Addiction treatment programs, health and social services and crime reduction
efforts to counter illicit drug trade are other examples of the types of services
required to support harm reduction. The
framework also recognizes that certain "social determinants
of health" influence people's well-being. Goals
British Columbia's Framework for Action on HIV/AIDS goals are to:
- reduce the number of new infections and reduce the spread of HIV;
- provide
people living with HIV and AIDS throughout British Columbia with the best possible
care, treatment and support services;
- improve knowledge and understanding
of HIV and AIDS and activities that increase the risk of infection; and
- address
the factors that increase risk of HIV/AIDS infection.
Planning
for Action Local
and Regional HIV/AIDS Services
Health authorities
throughout the province are working with people living with HIV/AIDS, advocates
and health and service agencies to develop HIV/AIDS health plans that will address
the framework's goals and objectives within their jurisdictions. These plans will
accommodate the transfer of community HIV/AIDS services to health authorities. IFederal/Provincial/Territorial
Coordination The
Ministry of Health also participates on federal/provincial/territorial committees
on HIV/AIDS and related issues, such as alcohol and other drug use, population
health and justice and health. These connections help the Ministry of Health remain
up to date on the progress of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and prevention and treatment
efforts throughout Canada and the world.
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Last Revised:
December 17, 2007
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