HIV Testing
Local PAETC sites target medical settings to promote and support the expansion of routine HIV testing in accordance with current CDC recommendations, with a decentralized model based on local community needs and epidemiology. This technical assistance/capacity building/training model involves key decision-makers, and provides support to clinics in developing or implementing HIV testing policies and procedures, along with accompanying staff training.
PAETC works with national, state and local partners, including health departments and state AIDS offices, the network of STD/HIV Prevention Training Centers, Center for Health Training, and the Curry National TB Center, to promote routine, opt-out HIV testing in medical settings throughout the region. PAETC sites are available to provide free custom-tailored training and technical assistance support on implementing routine HIV testing in health care settings, including:
- Background materials and references supporting the need for early identification and diagnosis of HIV infection.
- Sample HIV testing policies, procedures, protocols, forms, and other support tools used for conducting routine HIV testing.
- Information on currently available testing technologies and procedures (i.e., cost, methods, sensitivity, etc.)
- Training and consultation for staff on issues related to:
- Implementation: e.g., initiating the HIV testing discussion with providers, staff, and patients; gaining consent; laboratory procedures; financial issues (e.g., who pays for the test); how and when HIV test results are given; and appropriate counseling messages and referral resources for patients testing both HIV-negative and HIV-positive.
- Staff concerns related to systems changes, additional and new tasks, and identifying and working with HIV-infected patients.
- Information on and referral linkage to the National HIV/AIDS Clinicians’ Consultation Center (including the HIV Warmline, offering expert clinical advice on HIV/AIDS management for health care providers), and additional resources.
Additional links:
Online manual: Resources and References for Routine HIV Testing in Health Care Settings
Routine HIV Screening in HealthCare Setting using Rapid Test Policy and Procedures
Expanded Testing – Clinic Flow and Linkage to Care Flow
Targeted HIV Screening in Emergency Departments (AZ) Brochure
HIV Testing and Screening Cost and Reimbursement
Coding Guide for Routine HIV Testing in Health Care Settings