U.S. Embassy Capacitates RSLAF

The U.S. Embassy Freetown Security Cooperation team completed a five-day training on the Differentiated Service Delivery (DSD) model for the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) at the 34 Military Hospital in Freetown. This DSD model will simplify HIV services for people living with HIV and reduce burdens on the health system.

Thanks to the sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Defense HIV and AIDS Prevention Program (DHAPP), forty Sierra Leonean military personnel including nurses, doctors, and pharmacists attended the week-long training. This DSD training seeks to tailor service delivery approaches to meet the unique needs of RSLAF HIV patients. Moreover, the DSD model will make it easier for patients to receive the care they need by allowing for drug disbursement closer to their homes. This decentralized drug distribution will reduce the need for patients to frequently visit health facilities, making it more convenient for patients follow through with their anti-retroviral treatments.

This training was performed with the collaboration of facilitators from the Sierra Leonean Ministry of Health and the National DSD program team. The distance to treatment facilities, stigma, and the lack of transportation funds are common barriers to retention in HIV care. The DSD model will help overcome these challenges and improve the quality of life of Sierra Leonean military members.