The Russian Red Cross (RRC), the oldest humanitarian organization in Russia, launches peer support groups and schools for patients with HIV and TB in 40 regions of Russia. The groups will include meetings with doctors and psychologists, support groups and discussions. Anybody who wants to, also will be able to take free express tests for HIV infection. More than 40,000 people will be able to take these tests.
The first support groups and schools for HIV and TB patients have already been opened this month. By the end of July all 40 schools will be launched at the regional branches of the Russian Red Cross. The project is to be implemented till 2024. In the year 2023 the Russian Red Cross plans to cover 60 regions of the country and in 2024 plans to launch such schools in 80 regions.
“HIV infection and tuberculosis are very serious diseases. The Russian Red Cross runs a number of projects aimed at prevention of these disease and patient support. This year we will open 40 special patient schools and peer support groups for HIV and TB patients. More than 360 events are planned, namely discussions, trainings and meetings with doctors,” said Pavel Savchuk, the President of the Russian Red Cross.
The launch of peer support groups and schools for patients with HIV and tuberculosis will make it possible to raise awareness concerning socially significant diseases, to help those who face these diseases, and to improve patients’ adherence to treatment.
Patients with these diseases and their relatives will be able to attend groups and classes at schools. The project also includes educational activities. For example, school participants will learn from doctors and psychologists about peculiarities of living with HIV and ways to prevent TB and HIV. Additionally, psychological counseling and group sessions will be offered at schools and support groups. Also, in peer support groups patients with HIV and TB will be able to share their experiences and discuss any issues of concern.
The classes will be held by psychologists, doctors and invited subject matter experts from medical institutions. Volunteers of the Russian Red Cross will also be engaged in this activity.
It stands to mention that everyone will be able to take free express tests for HIV infection at the regional branches of the RRC. It is expected that at least 40,000 people will be subject to these tests by the end of this year. Visits to remote settlements will also be realized on the ground.
Support groups and schools for HIV and TB patients have been launched withing the framework of the Federal project “Supporting the Russian Red Cross initiatives”.
