Guinea-Bissau advances the validation of the National HIV Treatment Protocols | WHO

Bissau—The update aims to harmonize care practices, promote equitable access to treatment, and improve the care provided to people living with HIV.

The Ministry of Public Health of Guinea-Bissau, with technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO), is conducting the validation of the National HIV Treatment Protocols on 26 and 27 August.

The activity brings together health professionals, experts, and sector partners to review the technical content and reach a consensus before final approval.

Updated guidance to improve care

The review aims to align national practices with WHO recommendations, taking into account the needs of people living with HIV and the context of Guinea-Bissau’s health system.

Once approved, the protocols will serve as a reference for health teams across the country, helping to harmonize service delivery and strengthen the quality, safety, and continuity of care.

A process developed in several stages

The validation builds on the technical workshop held in Biombo from 16 to 21 July, during which the content now under consideration by participants was reviewed and developed.

The involvement of a broader group at this stage allows different knowledge and experiences to be incorporated, strengthens national ownership, and supports the development of guidance adapted to the realities of health services.

Equity, dignity, and human rights

In addition to strengthening the clinical approach, the update seeks to promote equitable access to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, with particular attention to the barriers faced by populations in situations of greater vulnerability.

People-centred care must uphold dignity, confidentiality, and human rights, free from stigma and discrimination.

The initiative forms part of the joint efforts of the Ministry of Public Health and WHO to improve the quality of health services and advance towards universal health coverage in Guinea-Bissau.