HIV Knowledge, Stigma, and Care Preparedness among Barangay Health Workers in Leyte: Implications for Community-based Interventions

Background. Despite advancements in antiretroviral therapy, HIV remains a critical public health concern in the Philippines, with stigma posing a major barrier to care. Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) play a frontline role in delivering health services under the Universal Health Care Law, yet their preparedness for HIV-related care is unclear. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, perceived behaviors, and HIV-related stigma among BHWs in Leyte, a province with a high HIV incidence in Eastern Visayas.

Methods. The study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. A total of 579 BHWs from 17 municipalities were selected using proportionate cluster sampling. Self-report questionnaires were used to collect data. The instruments were translated and pilot-tested. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in RStudio.

Results. Findings revealed that most BHWs had moderate to high knowledge of HIV transmission and self-protection. However, awareness of ART (mean score: 44.43%) and human rights of PLHIV (mean score: 54.46%) was low. While 58.03% of respondents reported positive attitudes toward PLHIV, 65.46% felt unprepared to care for them. Stigma persisted, with 65.11% showing varying degrees of negative perceptions. Discriminatory behaviors were low overall but present in nearly one-fifth of participants. Most BHWs (95.85%) expressed interest in attending future HIV-related workshops.

Conclusion. Although BHWs possess foundational HIV knowledge, critical gaps in ART awareness, stigma, and preparedness hinder effective HIV service delivery. The findings underscore the need for targeted capacity-building programs, stigma-reduction training, and multisectoral collaboration to empower BHWs in providing inclusive, evidence-based HIV care. Strengthening community-based interventions can bridge service gaps and promote early detection and treatment, ultimately improving health outcomes in grassroots settings.