Purpose: Men who have sex with men (MSM) in Vietnam are at high risk for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STI). However, few MSM in Vietnam routinely utilize HIV/STI testing and treatment services. We conducted a survey among MSM in Ho Chi Minh City to assess practices and preferences for accessing health services.
Methods: In this qualitative study, 19 individual interviews and 3 focus group discussions were conducted with a total of 50 MSM. All participants self-identified as gay or bisexual and were stratified by age group. Recruitment was by convenience sampling through social networks. Semi-structured interview guides included experience accessing health services, stigma and discrimination in the health care setting, and preferences for HIV and STI counseling and services.
Results: Fifty MSM aged 17 to 40 participated in the assessment. The majority had post-secondary education (92%) and above-average incomes. Almost all participants appreciated the cleanliness and quicker service in the private sector, while services in public hospitals were described as lower in quality but acceptable and uniform. The majority of the participants expressed a preference for MSM-specific services focusing on HIV/STI counseling, testing, and treatment. There was a strong preference for accessing HIV and STI services at a stand-alone clinic independent from other health facilities, where confidentiality could be assured. The majority were willing to pay a higher cost for private sector services, provided the service was of high quality, confidential, and non-stigmatizing.
Conclusion: This study confirms the need for high quality, nonjudgmental, and confidential HIV/STI health services for MSM in Vietnam. There is generally a willingness to pay for health services provided that the services are seen to be tolerant and friendly to MSM.
Keywords: Asia; HIV testing; Vietnam; health; men who have sex with men (MSM).