Examining the policy and implementation of HIV prevention through private retail pharmacies in Kenya

In low- and middle-income countries, a quarter to a half of patients go directly to high-street pharmacies when they need treatment for various illnesses and symptoms. Pharmacies could therefore be used to bring HIV prevention services to a large population. Yet pharmacies have traditionally been excluded from HIV prevention policies in Kenya. Policies for HIV self-testing (HST) and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) now recommend implementation in pharmacies, alongside other health facilities. To ensure maximum benefit of these approaches, it will be important to understand the current policy environment.

I will examine policy surrounding HIV prevention through private retail pharmacies in Kenya, evaluating the implementation of HST and PrEP policies in the pharmacies, and identifying interventions that can enhance the delivery and success of HIV prevention services in these settings.

This grant was awarded under the scheme's previous name of Training Fellowship in Public Health and Tropical Medicine.