Health promoters' contribution regarding health promotion for families with adolescents within the HIV and AIDS context

Abstract

Health care workers are faced with increased workloads because of clients who are suffering from different types of chronic illnesses, including HIV and AIDS. This article explored and described the role of health promoters regarding health promotion programmes for families with adolescents that have been orphaned by the HIV and AIDS endemic. A descriptive, qualitative phenomenological study was employed. The population involved health promoters in the Hammanskraal region in rural South Africa. The participants were purposively selected for focus group interviews. Data were qualitatively analysed. Various health promoters’ contributions were identified regarding home visits, patient care, social care and health education. The contributions of health promoters were visible and efficient in the communities. It was recommended that the community, the governmental and non-governmental organisations should train and support health promoters to assist in service delivery for local communities.