Evaluation of support houses for individuals living with HIV/AIDS in the Municipality of Ribeirão Preto of the State of São Paulo, Brazil

This study was an evaluation of the structure, functioning and characterization of administrative and biopsychosocial practices of support houses (two dedicated to adults and one to minors) for individuals with HIV/AIDS in the Municipality of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo State, Brazil. The methodology used was quantitative-qualitative, evaluative and exploratory research by free observations, a field diary and application of an instrument containing closed and open questions elaborated based on the Technical Norms of Health Surveillance Center, of the Center for Reference and Training on STDs and AIDS, of the State Health Department (CVS/CRT/AIDS/SES-SP). These organizations are run by an assistance and humanitarian entity, mostly maintained with resources from the civil society, partially following the norms and requirements of health agencies and health surveillance. Their coordination and human resources consist predominantly of women, both paid employees and volunteers. This work illustrates the important role of these nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in the field of social rights related to HIV/AIDS patients, filling lacunas not provided by governmental institutions.