in the Free State, Bloemfontein
11 February 2009
The Free State Department of Health issued instructions to the 28
antiretroviral (ARV) sites to initiate new treatment cases as soon as the new
drug orders are received.
In view of this development, clinicians and healthcare professionals were
advised that the uptake criteria are to be adhered to in order to prioritise
all patients with the greatest need.
Clear clinical guidance will be provided per site on the rate of patient
uptake and clinical discretion is to be applied. The uptake of new patients
will be strictly controlled against the availability of ARV drugs to ensure
that those who are on treatment can be sustained.
With the present backlog, 12 000 new clients (cumulative head count) are
being estimated for drug needs between February 2009 and the end of April 2009.
This uptake depends on the availability of drugs.
Enquiries:
Elke de Witt
Cell: 083 561 6517
Issued by: Department of Health, Free State Provincial Government
11 February 2009
