Introduction:

HIV-related stigma and discrimination significantly hinder effective HIV prevention, treatment, and care

within healthcare settings. Addressing these challenges is vital for improving patient-centered care and ensuring health

equity. Aiming to reduce healthcare stigma and enhance care quality, we applied a continuous quality improvement

program to identify and mitigate barriers to compassionate and comprehensive HIV care in a medical center in Taiwan.

Methods:

The study was performed in an HIV-designated medical center in southern Taiwan. A quality improvement

program was planned, and the Mandarin version of the HEALTHQUAL stigma questionnaires was utilized as quality

control indicators.1,2 Surveys were administered quarterly to all healthcare personnel (HCPs) as well as people living with

HIV (PLWH) follow-up at the outpatient department to assess and monitor perceptions and experiences of HIV-related

stigma and discrimination. Subsequent improvement strategies were performed according to the feedback from the

survey.

Results:

During the study period, campaigns were conducted, including propagating the concept of U=U, offering free

coffee to the HCPs, hosting educational lectures, and organizing poster exhibitions. Continuous surveys using the

questionnaires demonstrated improvement in the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of HCPs regarding the care of

PLWH. 

Conclusion:

Using quality improvement programs targeting HIV stigma is a crucial step towards achieving zero HIVrelated

stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings. As the first pilot hospital using these indicators in Taiwan, our

findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to improve the quality of patient-centered care, promoting a more

inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment for PLWH. This study also lays the groundwork for future efforts aimed

at bridging the gap towards a sustainable and equitable healthcare future, emphasizing the importance of eliminating

stigma and discrimination to achieve health for all.