Document Type
Article
Department
Institute for Human Development
Abstract
Background: Children with perinatal HIV exposure are at increased risk for neurodevelopmental (ND) delays, yet little is known about ND screening implementation for this population.
Methods: This longitudinal study evaluated ND screening implementation at a health clinic in Kenya, from 9/2021 to 8/2023. Children aged 18-36 months with perinatal HIV exposure were screened using a 12-item general ND tool. Implementation outcomes—acceptability, feasibility, fidelity, and sustainability—were assessed through time-motion observations, clinic records, and semi-structured interviews with caregivers and staff.
Results: Of 507 eligible children, 405 (80%) were screened. Screening rates were consistent over 24 months, with average time reduced to under 5 min. Facilitators included staff collaboration and caregiver support; barriers included time constraints and child temperament.
Conclusions: ND screening was acceptable, feasible, and sustainable. Policymakers should embed ND screening within national child health programs, invest in workforce training and task-sharing models, strengthen referral and follow-up systems, and ensure affordable access to services.
AKU Student
no
Publication (Name of Journal)
Journal of the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1177/23259582251407359
Recommended Citation
McHenry, M. S.,
Oyungu, E.,
Abubakar, A.,
Ombitsa, A. R.,
Gaviola, M.,
Cherop, C.,
Kaniaru, B.,
Jerop, C.,
McGuire, A.,
Vreeman, R. C.
(2026). Longitudinal implementation of a neurodevelopmental screening program for children born to mothers living with HIV in maternal–child clinics in Kenya: A mixed methods study. Journal of the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care, 25, 1-12.
Available at:
https://ecommons.aku.edu/eastafrica_ihd/248
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.