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HIV/AIDS Care Practices, Attitudes, and Challenges Among Orthopaedic Surgeons in Somalia: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Survey

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Orthopaedic surgeons may encounter occupational, clinical, and institutional challenges when providing surgical care to patients living with HIV. In Somalia, evidence concerning surgeons’ attitudes, practices, and experiences in managing these patients remains limited. This study aimed to assess HIV-related care practices, attitudes, and perceived challenges among orthopaedic surgeons practising in Somalia. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and April 2025. A census-based sampling approach was used to invite 33 identified eligible orthopaedic surgeons, all of whom completed the survey, yielding a response rate of 100%. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, institutional policies, attitudes, clinical practices, training, and perceived challenges. The questionnaire underwent expert review by five healthcare professionals and was pilot tested among five orthopaedic surgeons who were excluded from the final sample. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: Most respondents were aged 30– 40 years (n = 23, 69.7%), followed by those aged above 40 years (n = 6, 18.2%) and those younger than 30 years (n = 4, 12.1%). Thirty surgeons (90.9%) reported mandatory preoperative HIV testing, while only seven (21.2%) reported that their hospitals had written protocols for operating on patients living with HIV. Twenty-two respondents (66.7%) had previously performed surgery on patients living with HIV, and 21 (63.6%) reported managing these patients similarly to other patients while applying appropriate precautions. However, ten respondents (30.3%) preferred referring patients to another provider or facility. Inadequate resources (84.8%), concerns about occupational transmission (78.8%), and insufficient knowledge or training (45.5%) were frequently reported challenges. Stigma and discrimination were also identified as challenges by 45.5% of respondents. Conclusion: The findings highlight reported gaps in institutional guidance, protective resources, and HIV-related professional training among participating orthopaedic surgeons in Somalia. Strengthening infection prevention procedures, occupational health support, and professional education may help improve the consistency and safety of surgical care. However, the small sample size, self-reported data, and descriptive design limit the generalizability of the findings and do not establish the reasons underlying clinical preferences. Further research is needed to inform broader improvements in HIV-related orthopaedic care. Keywords: HIV/AIDS care, orthopaedic surgeons, clinical practice, infection prevention, occupational exposure, resource-limited settings, Somalia

Source: HIV/AIDS - Research and Palliative Care

DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s653876

Authors: Abdirizak Abdullahi Sheikdon, Abdishakor Mohamud Ahmed, Abdullahi Hassan Elmi

Institutions: Somali National University, SIMAD University

Language: English

Topic: HIV/AIDS Research and Interventions

Subfield: Infectious Diseases

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,320