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Canadian Journal of Public Health = Revue Canadienne de Santé Publique logoLink to Canadian Journal of Public Health = Revue Canadienne de Santé Publique
. 2000 Sep 1;91(5):353–356. doi: 10.1007/BF03404806

Social Planning in Canada for Families with HIV Infection

Robyn L Salter Goldie 18,✉, Dale J De Matteo 28, Lilian M Wells 38, Gloria R Aykroyd 48, Susan M King 58,68
PMCID: PMC6980115  PMID: 11089288

Abstract

Parents living with HIV and their children face complex medical and social problems. Whether the children are infected or not, they are all affected by the presence of HIV in a parent. The purpose of this article is to describe the problems of families with HIV and to propose social planning measures to respond to their psychosocial needs. It is based on a multicentre study that included in-depth interviews with 110 parents representing 91 Canadian families living with HIV. The study’s findings and recommendations were reviewed by parents with HIV, social workers specializing in helping affected families, and a multidisciplinary consensus conference. This process identified six areas needing attention: stigma and disclosure; promoting and supporting family health; planning and transitions for the care of children; economic issues; cultural and immigrant issues; and education, advocacy, policy development, and research. Recommendations for action were made in each area.

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