In New Jersey approximately 70,000 HIV tests are conducted each year at publicly funded sites, but only 2/3 of those tested return for results. It was hypothesized that decreasing the time between HIV testing and the availability of the results would increase the return rate. A randomized experiment of 742 participants was conducted at 3 study sites: a site dedicated to HIV services, a drug treatment center, and an STD clinic. Participants were 60% male, 39% African-American, 36% Hispanic, and 25% white with a mean age of 32. After consenting, they were randomly assigned to receive results from 3 days to 2 weeks after the initial visit. 72% of participants returned for results across study sites. Logistic regression analysis using predictor variables of site type, sex, race, age, previous testing history, and anonymity showed that decreasing the time between testing and the availability of results did not increase the percentage of clients who returned for results. This held for all site types, racial or ethnic groups, for both sexes, and for all ages. As in previous studies, clients at drug treatment centers, STD clinics, African-Americans, and younger clients were less likely to return for results. Post hoc analysis showed that even clients whose results were available in less than 6 days, had a mean return time of 14 days, although they did return sooner than their control counterparts. Incentives or rapid tests should be considered as ways to increase the percentage of clients who receive HIV test results.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session the participant will be able to 1) recognize the need for providing HIV results to clients tested 2) identify characteristics of clients who fail to return for results 3) identify strategies that have been tried to increase the percentage of clients receiving results 4) discuss the success of strategies to increase the percentage of clients receiving results
Keywords: HIV Interventions, HIV/AIDS
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: I am employed by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services