Dr. Laura Waters on the Power of Peer Support in HIV Care
Dr. Laura Waters on the Power of Peer Support in HIV Care
By Nadine Cameron
It was encouraging for me to hear Dr Laura Waters talk at The Power of Peer Support event this summer.
Laura is based at the Bloomsbury clinic - the second largest HIV clinic in the country, and delivered an insightful talk that cast a spotlight on the pivotal role of peer support in the world of HIV care.
The Transformation of HIV Perception
Laura’s talk began with a really positive note acknowledging the incredible progress made in the treatment and perception of HIV. She noted that "HIV has transformed from a terminal condition to one where if you’re diagnosed you can now live a normal life with a normal life expectancy.".
While celebrating the message that "undetectable is untransmittable," ( U = U ) she remarked that HIV, though now often classified with other long-term conditions, is unique due to the lingering stigma attached to it.
"What’s unique about HIV, compared to high blood pressure or other illnesses, is of course the stigma. The stigma and potential discrimination that’s driven mainly by lack of knowledge and lack of understanding.".
The Stubbornness of Stigma
Drawing attention to the deeply entrenched misconceptions about HIV, she referred to a recent survey that states that "1 in 20 people from the general population still hold the belief that you can contract HIV from sharing a glass, despite that being disproven in 1983… 40 years ago.".
She also candidly expressed her dismay at the continued lack of awareness among healthcare professionals. "I stand here as a doctor and I’m ashamed to say that so many healthcare professionals still hold outdated beliefs around HIV which can make service users’ experiences negative.". This outdated perspective among healthcare professionals has led to reluctance among those with HIV to seek treatment due to fear of stigma.
The Importance of Peer Support
Dr. Waters strongly emphasised the significance of peer support, especially given the unique challenges faced by those living with HIV. She stated, "Peer support is, and should be, central to all health and social care but sadly it is a service that is lacking.". Reflecting on personal testimonies she had witnessed, she noted, "Many people living with HIV are frightened to go to health clinics, with some even stopping their treatment for fear of stigma. That’s why peer support groups are so critical.".
Championing their role of peer support workers, Dr. Waters expressed takes the view that peer support workers they are professionals deserving of recognition and remuneration: "We have to recognise that peer support is a critical part of caring for people living with HIV.".
Trust & Religion's Positive Role
Dr. Waters also touched upon the topic of trust and the role that religious communities can play in improving health and life outcomes for PLWH. She said that “people don’t always see doctors as trustworthy and while I see myself as a friendly and approachable doctor, I have to remember that often people don’t want to hear messages from me”.
"People believe messages from people they trust and there’s so much good that can come from engaging with religious communities and leaders to share information relating to HIV with one another.".
Dr. Laura Waters' insightful talk at The Power of Peer Support event underscored the importance of community, understanding, and shared responsibility in battling the stigma associated with HIV.