During the COVID-19 time, we faced a number of aspects in collaboration with key groups, which required a prompt and effective solution on our part:

1. Conducting online activities for the provision of psychosocial services to risk groups

Problem: The pandemic has impacted the drug scene, the substitution of heroin and opium with synthetic drugs due to the difficulties of procurement, transportation and restrictions caused by the state of emergency. And access to synthetic drugs (crystals, spice, salts, speed) has practically not changed: they are easier to get, because there is no direct contact with the supplier, all actions on the Internet are paid for by translations, “bookmarks” are made as well.

The ways of communication through closed messengers (Telegram) and other networks have increased. As a result, the number of new clients involved in harm reduction services has decreased.

Solution: We started looking for funds for staff training and piloting a project to attract new clients through social networks. We wrote a project, got it and started its implementation. Trained employees of the organization to work with social networks and opened our own Telegram channel.

Results:

1. 15 employees of the organization were trained to work in the social networks.
2. We created a telegram channel. At the moment we have 486 subscribers who receive useful information daily.
3. For 9 months through the social network we involved 128 new clients to our services.

2. Providing access to vital information for HIV positive families

Problem: The Coronavirus pandemic has affected many vulnerable groups, in particular families with HIV. Those who live in various regions of the Republic of Moldova found themselves limited in access to medical care, therapy and specialists’ consultations. Due to the lockdown, the ability to travel by transport between cities was limited. Because of the inability of families to come to the hospital not only for therapy, but also for consultations, they found themselves in a more vulnerable situation, not only in the context of HIV infection, but also COVID-19, having no financial opportunity to contact specialists at the right time. In addition, many parents earlier faced problems in raising children as well, and now everything has become aggravated due to the fact that they stay all together at home constantly.

The most vulnerable were HIV-positive children. Schools switched to online studying, but many lacked the technical equipment and access to the Internet.

Solution: We started looking for funds to provide such families with tablets and the Internet.

We organized not only such support, but also the possibility of communication with a social worker and a psychologist. We provided children with stationery and materials for harmonious development. The families were also provided with masks and disinfectants.

Result: 24 families with HIV-positive children received: tablets, Internet access for 17 months, protective masks, disinfectants, and school supplies.

3. Ensuring access to hepatitis treatment during a pandemic

Problem: We faced with a high detection rate of hepatitis during the vulnerable groups testing. Many beneficiaries have problems with access to medical services due to lack of insurance and discrimination on the part of staff of specialized institutions, and the pandemic has exacerbated the situation, including access to treatment for hepatitis C.

The number of beneficiaries with hepatitis increased, and the tools of assistance became smaller.

Solution: We applied for 30 medical policies procurement for people who use psychoactive substances and live with hepatitis, but do not have the opportunity to buy it. For those beneficiaries who had it, we organized assistance and support at all stages of treatment.

Results:

1. 30 people received policies.
2. 485 consultations on hepatitis were conducted.
3. There were 247 tests for Hepatitis C.
4. 45 people received treatment.

In the process, we identified violations of patients’ rights and provided high-quality and effective medical care to people from vulnerable groups. And also, it was possible to find other ways of providing with policies as well.