Internet HIV self-testing

About the project

Rapid HIV self-testing (HIVST) has high fidelity, feasibility and acceptability, and has the potential to provide testing to individuals who do not regularly use traditional healthcare services, providing an opportunity for early care. This platform aim to improve the acceptability of a web-based HIV Self-Test diagnostic delivery service. We have developed a useful clinical mobile application with the aim of improving access to self-testing diagnostics devices that encourage screening and early detection of disease. Through a marketing campaign patients are encouraged to log onto the website to request an HIVST. The website informs participants with text of the benefits of HIV self testing and an accompanying video and provided referral options. After providing consent, a courier was notified to deliver the iTest HIV Self-Test kit to the participant’s self-identified address. A counsellor completes the acceptability questionnaire telephonically within two weeks of delivery. www.hivselftesting

Previous research has indicated that healthcare services need to create accessibility and link each stage of the treatment cascade to encourage health-seeking behaviour in clients. While HIV testing rates have improved, the majority of HIV positive individuals do not know their HIV status, which hampers responses to the South African epidemic.

HIV self-testing (HIVST) is an empowering and innovative way to reach more people with HIV and help achieve the first of the United Nation’s 90–90–90 targets – for 90% of all people with HIV to know their status by 2020. Our mobile and courier solution aims to assist people with diagnostic self-testing at home and, in doing so, to provide a convenient channel for proactive and preventative screening and care. Our approach is to improve access to screening and medication to poor resource communities. This will improve linkage to care to commence treatment.