Why Availability Isn't Access: Factors Affecting HIV Prevention and Care Uptake Among People Who Inject Drugs in Kazakhstan

Conference poster prepared for the Geneva Health Forum 2026, abstract #441, under the theme “Health Promotion and Community Engagement”. The poster is based on an MPH Global Health thesis at Imperial College London. This scoping review examines factors affecting access, uptake and continued engagement in HIV prevention and care among people who inject drugs in Kazakhstan. Ovid Embase and MEDLINE were searched for literature published during 2010–2026. The synthesis includes 24 evidence entries, organised using the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation and Sustainment (EPIS) framework. Findings identify administrative requirements, provider stigma, disclosure concerns and fragmented care pathways as barriers to engagement. The Bridge trial reported improvements in several outcomes, including HIV testing and treatment initiation, but no statistically significant increase in referral to or registration at AIDS Centres. Evidence on sustained organisational delivery after implementation support ended was limited. The poster highlights priorities for confidential and respectful care, practical implementation support, community participation and coordination between providers.