The HIV/AIDS Epidemic and Poverty: A Human Perspective

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Author
Ledford, Paul A.
Subject
Washington and Lee University, Shepherd Poverty Program
Poverty
HIV infections -- Social aspects
Child welfare
Community health services
Human capital
Public health
Health care reform -- Government policy
Costa Rica
El Salvador
Jamaica
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Paul A. Ledford is a member of the Class of 2004 of Washington and Lee University. Capstone; [FULL-TEXT FREELY AVAILABLE ONLINE] The three countries (Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Jamaica) bear testamony to the importance of the health system and provided real world examples of how the AIDS epidemic exploits a nation's shortcomings on a variety of levels. The heartening part of the story is that all three nations seem to realize the important role of the health system and are making the requisite adjustments. Some countries, like Costa Rica, are further down this road and serve as a good example for other nations to follow. El Salvador and Jamaica are significantly poorer nations and so may progress more slowly, but they nevertheless demonstrate a true understanding of the epidemic and the requirements of an effective response. What remains to be seen is if there is a genuine political will and commitment by the health systems to confront and successfully address this most daunting phenomenon. [From Conclusion] Paul A. Ledford