"Integration"--finding the way in Belize.

PIP: This paper highlights the challenges involved in integrating AIDS control programs into existing health care services. The Belize Red Cross Association has integrated its AIDS control program into its extensive child survival programs in Belize. The program involved training of volunteers who would provide AIDS related information at the household level. Trained traditional birth attendant and community leaders were also well represented in the program. On evaluation of the year's field experience, it was concluded that integration had worked, since a large percentage of the target population used condoms and 74% of the female population sought it as their responsibility to initiate the use of condoms. The success of this project was primarily attributed to the determination of the participants, and to the fact that the existing health services had already established a target population which was accessible to the health workers.^ieng