Expenditure incurred by HIV/AIDS patients receiving free antiretroviral therapy (ART) in a tertiary health facility in North-Western Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: HIV/AIDS is by far the most prominent emerging infectious disease, causing unsurpassed morbidity and mortality than its peers. Free ART was introduced by World Health Organization as part of universal access to ART. Despite this, patients still incur out-of-pocket expenses when accessing it. Objective: To assess the additional out-of pocket expenditure incurred annually by patients receiving free ART in a Tertiary Health Facility. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study involving 85 HIV positive patients receiving free ARTS at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. Respondents were selected by simple random sampling. Data was collected using standard structured interviewer-administrated questionnaire. SPSS statistical package was used for data analysis. Result: Most of the respondents (45.6%) are in the 30-39 years age group and are mostly females (65.9%) residing in Zaria (51.8%). They visit the clinic at least once a month, spending money on feeding, transportation, substitute labour, non-ART drugs, among others. On average, such expenditure amounts to $200.52 annually, while their average annual income is $1751.98. There was a statistically significant association between monthly income and occupation in respondents who feel regular clinic 2 attendance is difficult to sustain financially (X = 45.682, df 30, P=0.033). Conclusion: HIV/AIDS patients receiving free ARTS incur significant out-of-pocket expenses while accessing treatment. There is need for the program to move beyond free ARTS and introduce some financial relief such as Government subsidy and an 'AIDS Allowance' for the patients (especially the low income ones).