BLOG | June 4, 2026

General Hospital Calabar and ECEWS Drive Seamless HIV Service Integration

A service integration review meeting was held at General Hospital Calabar, Cross River State, to assess progress and identify recommendations for improving the integration of HIV service delivery into the facility’s general outpatient department. The meeting brought together the ECEWS ACE-5 project team, facility coordinators, clinical mentors, case managers, and key stakeholders, all committed to strengthening seamless, patient-centred care.

 

 

The facility currently manages approximately 3,439 clients, with a viral load suppression rate of 95%. Service integration activities formally commenced on 3 March 2026, with the co-location of the pharmacy and laboratory units. Government of Nigeria staff in these units have since assumed responsibility for drug dispensing and pharmacy documentation, while laboratory technicians now process samples from all patients referred to the lab, regardless of HIV status. 

Following the assessment, facility management committed to fully aligning the records unit with the broader integration approach. Two key measures have already been implemented: the co-location of Recipients of Care folders alongside general medical folders, and the active engagement of Government of Nigeria staff in managing records activities, including documentation and Electronic Medical Record (EMR) updates, to ensure a unified system for all patients. All Recipients of Care are now assigned standard hospital identification numbers and folders, consistent with every other patient in the facility. 

This strategic shift is designed to achieve several important objectives, including the elimination of stigma and discrimination for individuals accessing ART services, promote confidentiality, dignity, and equity in patient interactions, and strengthen records management and continuity of care across all service touchpoints, 

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