To what extent is equity entrenched in HIV/AIDS-related policy documents in Ethiopia? A policy content analysis

The mentioning and consideration of (in)equity in policy and strategic documents have increased over time, but not consistently or comprehensively. Growing emphasis has been placed on equity rather than equality. The shift from equality to equity in HIV/AIDS policy documents reflects a more nuanced understanding of the diverse needs of individuals and groups. More attention is given to gender issues and health system governance than to other dimensions of equity. It is vital that policy-makers revise their HIV/AIDS-related policy documents to promote health equity for all social strata, particularly among multiple disadvantaged groups. Health information systems should be designed in such a way that they generate and manage information to assess the extent of (in)equity and the progress towards equity in HIV/AIDS services.