Die sosio-ekonomies posisie MIV/VIGS-pasiente in die Noordwes Provinsie

Abstract

As a result of a lack of funds and facilities for the care of HIV victims in South Africa, the accent increasingly falls on home care and on the responsibility of the family as the support system for patients. The question is however raised whether families always are financially and otherwise able and have the capacity to care for their family members according to the demands made on them by the illness. In an attempt to provide an answer to these questions, this article will focus on the socioeconomic position of HIV patients in the North West Province. Specific attention will be given to income and expense patterns, while housing situations such as over-habitation and the size of households will also b.e investigaJed. The eventual conclusion arrived at, is that poverty situations play a prominent role that not only affects the patient but also each member of the household.