Community-based healthcare in Botswana

Abstract

Holy Cross Hospice is a non-governmental organization in Gaborone, Botswana that provides palliative care to terminally ill patients and operates health education and psychosocial support programs for orphans and vulnerable children. The focus of this project was to assist in the delivery of palliative care and develop health education programs about Sexual Health and HIV to contribute to the national goal of reducing HIV transmission in Botswana. This experience led to an enhanced understanding of the challenges faced by community-based health service organizations in developing countries; and the cultural and socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes of individuals and communities.