Perceived Barriers Preventing and Treating HIV/AIDS among Public Health Workers in Florida

Authors

Nichole E. Stetten
Felix Lorenzo
Jessica L. King
Mark Hart

Abstract

In 2015, Florida moved from being ranked second to first nationally in total number of HIV diagnoses. To combat this statistic, public health workers were interviewed to understand perceived perspectives about available resources and practicable solutions to barriers that may inhibit the use of testing and treatment services to reduce overall health disparities and inequalities among individuals with HIV/AIDS. Ten public health workers from rural counties in Florida were interviewed, and then qualitatively analyzed using the constant comparison method. Public health workers found that multiple barriers, lack of education and knowledge of resources available among health workers, and a need for continuing education on HIV/AIDS have an impact on how preventive services and treatment are carried out. Along with highlighting key issues among public health workers, in this paper, we hope to provide feasible solutions at a time where public health funding is decreasing.

Recommended Citation

Stetten, Nichole E.; Lorenzo, Felix; King, Jessica L.; and Hart, Mark (2019) "Perceived Barriers Preventing and Treating HIV/AIDS among Public Health Workers in Florida," Florida Public Health Review: Vol. 15, Article 14.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/fphr/vol15/iss1/14