Evaluation program for training component of the national program for prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission in Armenia

Abstract

The epidemic of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is one of this century’s most public health challenges. Official statistics show that 42 million people globally are living with HIV/AIDS. In Eastern Europe and Central Asia region (including Armenia) the number of people living with HIV/AIDS is 1.2 million. From the beginning of the epidemic to October 1, 2003, 240 HIV carriers were registered in Armenia. These reported cases include cases of children born from HIV-infected parents. According to official statistics over 1 600 children each day are infected through mother- to -child transmission (MTCT) in the world. The International Organizations recommend comprehensive prevention program that includes education of health care providers. The purpose of this evaluation program is to assess the effectiveness of an educational program of health care specialists in Yerevan within the framework of the National Program on HIV/AIDS Prevention. The results of the study would be used for a future statewide education program for health care providers. The measurable objective of the evaluation program is the mean change in knowledge score of health care specialists participating in the training of prevention of MTCT of HIV. A quasi-experimental design is proposed. The evaluation will be implemented in district pregnant women counseling centers, delivery hospitals, and polyclinics in Yerevan. Intervention and comparison populations consist of all obstetrician-gynecologists, pediatricians, and neonatologists of selected health care facilities in Yerevan. The required sample size for intervention and control groups is equal to 50 for each group. The data collection instrument will be a self-administered questionnaire. The program is designed to take place over the time period of one-year. The overall estimated budget is about $15,481.