Problem: Ukraine has the fastest HIV/STI spread rate in Europe (221 806 PLWH as of November 2012).

Sexual HIV transmission mode has been dominant in Ukraine since 2008 (51% - sexual mode, 28%–parenteral).

HIV/STI epidemics in Ukraine are concentrated within vulnerable groups and threaten to generalise.

Activities description:

STI diagnostics and treatment programmes for vulnerable groups started in Ukraine since 2008, when the situation was unfavourable due to lack of understanding between medical services, adverse attitude towards case management and integrated services principles. Several models of dermatovenerological assistance to the vulnerable groups and their stage-by-stage implementation were developed.

Results In 2008 62 HCFs and 82 NGOs joined the programme.

In 2012 STI diagnostics and treatment became available in 108 healthcare facilities of Ukraine (50 dermatovenerological dispensaries, 25 AIDS centres, 33 general clinics).

As of 31.07.2012 there were 595 812 screening tests and counselling for vulnerable groups on STI and viral hepatitis and 33 637 STI treatment courses were provided.

193 247 vulnerable groups’ representatives (as of 31.07.2012) were referred to 15 mobile clinics providing HIV/STI testing and counselling for vulnerable groups.

16 trainings were held for NGOs and healthcare facilities’ representatives.

In 2012 22 multidisciplinary teams were created providing STI diagnostics and treatment for vulnerable groups in healthcare facilities.

Conclusions

1. STI diagnostics and treatment services should be an integral part of the integrated HIV prevention services package for vulnerable groups.

2. STI programmes can be implemented only in cooperation with the dermatovenerological service and the AIDS service.

3. Programs should be implemented simultaneously under several models considering country and regional peculiarities.

4. MDTs are the most successful model.