How to Improve HIV Screening Rates Among US Veterans

Using a telephone strategy improved HIV testing rates among US Veterans (USV), according to a study which was presented at IDWeek2024.

In this prospective study, researchers analyzed 368 USV, with mean age of 60 years old. USV without prior HIV screening were telephoned to obtain informed HIV testing consent and testing was ordered for USV who agreed, the researchers noted.

The results showed that 220 (59.8%) USV had received prior HIV testing. Sixty-eight (18.5%) USV with no prior testing gave consent to obtain an HIV test, 29 (42.6%) USV underwent testing and 29 (100%) tested negative for HIV. The investigators noted that prior HCV testing was common (n=262, 71.2%); 2 (0.8%) USV had prior HCV infection and were treated. Common patient barriers to HIV testing (refusal, provider outside VA system) and provider factors of USV aged 15 to 65 from three primary care provider panels at NVAMC. 

“Implementation of a telephone strategy improved HIV testing rates at NVAMC. HIV screening is cost effective as early identification improves survival due to linkage to care and access to treatment. Consequently, this may prevent forward transmission of HIV,” the researchers concluded.