Welcome

This blog will attempt to cover some of the issues in the HIV and AIDS arena that the members of the International Christian Medical and Dental Association are dealing with around the world - partcualrly looking at the engagement of faith, medicine and HIV/AIDS.

In the short term this will include a detailed report (at least day-to-day) from the Eurasia Regional HIV Pre-conference at the ICMDA Conference in Schladming, Austria this September (2008).

The aim of the HIV pre conference stream is to bring together Christians working in HIV & AIDS care, prevention and treatment across the region in order to learn from one another, explore new models of practice, look at how we influence our own churches and faith-communities to respond positively, and to strengthen networks of professionals working in the field

The ICMDA HIV Initiative grew out of the ICMDA International AIDS Preconference at Meroo, New South Wales in July 2006. It is a linked activity of the International Christian Medical and Dental Association. We are motivated by a belief in a loving God who cares about all the world's people regardless of health status, race, creed, colour or financial or social standing. We continue to encourage all Christian health workers, services, institutions, local congregations and communities to engage holistically in HIV and AIDS advocacy, education, prevention, care and treatment. We support the call for universal access to prevention and treatment as part of a right to health and dignity for all. To these ends, and other commitments highlighted in the Meroo Statement


The ICMDA HIV Initiative is involved in:

• An annual Dignity & Right to Health Award that recognises Christian health professionals making a significant impact in care and treatment of people and communities affected by HIV

• Running conferences and events within and outside ICMDA Programmes that seek to encourage, equip and empower Christian health workers involved in responding to HIV & AIDS.