A Needs Assessment and Proposal for HIV Education among Human Resource Managers in Singapore

Abstract

Aim of Study: To assess the educational needs of human resource managers in Singapore with regard to the management of HIV at the workplace. No such study has been described before in an Asian country. Method: A self-administered questionnaire was mailed to all companies (with more than 100 employees) of a local employers federation (n=368). Results: A response rate of 64.1% was achieved. Respondents' knowledge about HIV transmission was found to be good. However, their attitudes and practices towards infected workers were unfavourable on such issues as pre-employment screening, medical coverage and termination of employment. Possible reasons for this disparity include inadequate information specific to workplace needs, multiple determinants of attitudes (other than knowledge) and various environmental factors. Conclusion: Strategies for an educational intervention are proposed to facilitate the development of a rational HIV management policy by local managers.