Can't NACO see open table counseling at Center of Excellence, STM, Kolkata?

[Guest guest]

Dear Forum,

As we all know School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata is the pioneer institute of

Eastern India.

They provide excellent treatment expertise towards the people living with

HIV/AIDS and also the Regional Training Institute for HIV/AIDS clinical

expertise as well as Center of Excellence.

But you will surprise to know that for months after months they are

violating/ignoring their ethical obligation for counseling i.e. " Audio Visual

Privacy " for the 2nd line ART clients in the main office of " Center of

Excellence " .

Where you will find two open tables, one for Psychological Counselor and another

for Nutritional Counselor surrounded by computers, where different types of

data entry and other jobs are going on by other staffs.

And the Psychological Counseling consists of just counting of pills to monitor

adherence followed by just one sentence, " How are you? " Without any attempt of in

depth counseling!

You will also find " open table counseling " in out patient ward, where Pre ART

Registration being done.

If you ask anybody about this situation the reply will be " shortage of space "

etc.

Hope now NACO will take immediate necessary action to protect the Human Rights

of People living with HIV according to " National Mental Health Policy " .

Thanking you,

In solidarity,

Snehansu Bhaduri

snehansu.bhaduri@...

9874693613(Mobile)