The Role of Social Work in HIV/AIDS Clinical Trials

Abstract

The social worker can facilitate screening, retention and patient adherence in HIV/AIDS clinical trials. This paper introduces the process and its key vocabulary, and uses three case studies to demonstrate how social workers can assist clients who may wish to participate in, or are already enrolled in a clinical trial. After examining five major issues that affect the client in a clinical trial (informed consent; treatment vs. research; risks and side effects; altruism; the role of family members; and gender, race and class issues), the authors elaborate on interventions at the screening level, and concrete services and psychosocial interventions for study participants.

The Psycho-Social Aspects of Non-Adherence in ART Therapy in HIV/AIDS and Social Work Intervention: A Case Study in Delhi

“…The holistic approach of social work is universal but the priorities of social work practice vary from country to country and from time to time depending on cultural, historical and socio economic conditions. In addition to this the social work skills such as strong case management and knowledge about resources and referral sources can greatly benefit both the client and counselor [7]. Knowledge about crises intervention and crises management as well as grief counseling skills are also equally important.…”