AIDS - From Policy to Practice

Challenges

Behavioral changes are difficult to bring about, especially in private matters. Family planning and AIDS is, therefore, a very delicate issue that requires a great deal of sensitivity. At the same time, AIDS remains high on the agenda of countries and development agencies alike. Despite a slight reduction in new infections in many parts of the world, the number of people living with HIV/AIDS, estimated at 33 million in 2009, continues to rise. Gender inequality, stigma and the failure to protect human rights are the drivers of the epidemic. It is common knowledge today that technical approaches can only be successful if social issues are addressed as well. As considerable evidence has accumulated regarding AIDS control, interventions are becoming more focused and should satisfy standards established by international best practice.


GFA Approach

Since its beginnings in 1997, GFA Medica, the company’s health department, has advised a variety of clients on the implementation of AIDS studies and projects. We have worked in 14 countries, ten of which were based on multi-year contracts. This long-standing experience has provided us with the competence to take on complex tasks. Also, it has allowed GFA Consulting Group to develop a strong network of skilled experts who can provide the type of professional standards and best practices our international clients would expect.

GFA Services

GFA Consulting Group services cover both HIV/AIDS prevention and comprehensive care. Our expert teams have particular experience with the social marketing of condoms and with implementing communication programs for HIV prevention. Here, increasing the knowledge, and changing attitudes and practices of key stakeholders are crucial factors. Such programs often comprise workplace interventions, harm reduction for drug users as well as prevention programs for adolescents in general and specific groups such as itinerant construction workers. Moreover, GFA consultants have assisted treatment centers providing anti-retroviral treatment and the diagnosis and treatment of opportunistic infections. Our experienced experts have created facilities for voluntary testing and counseling, and centers for home-based care. For public health laboratories, GFA consultants have assisted purchasing large volumes of medical equipment for anti-retroviral therapy by international competitive bidding.  


GFA AIDS Policy

GFA has established an AIDS policy for its personnel in Germany and abroad which is part of the company’s quality management and its manual on project coordination. The policy has two main objectives. GFA personnel is informed about risks and preventive measures and understands the impact of the epidemic. Also, our working environment is free from stigma and discrimination. Our consultants and team leaders abroad have been instructed about our policy.