Previously Diagnosed HIV-Positive Persons: The Role of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention–Funded HIV Testing Programs in Addressing Their Needs. Issue 6 (June 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Seth, Puja; Wang, Guoshen; Belcher, Lisa
• Is Part Of: Sexually transmitted diseases. Volume 45:Issue 6(2018)
• Publication Date: 2018-06
• Subjects: Sexually transmitted diseases -- Periodicals; Sexual health -- Periodicals; 616.951005
• DOI: 10.1097/OLQ.0000000000000766
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0148-5717

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Increased HIV testing efforts have resulted in retesting previously diagnosed persons. This study examined Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)–funded HIV testing programs to evaluate how the needs of previously diagnosed persons are being addressed. Methods: The following were examined by demographic and test setting among previously diagnosed HIV-positive persons in 2015: CDC-funded HIV testing, previously diagnosed HIV positivity, current care status, and linkage to care. In addition, trends of HIV positivity and previously diagnosed HIV-positivity were examined from 2011 to 2015. Results: In 2015, CDC funded 3, 026, 074 HIV tests, and 27, 729 were HIV-positive tests. Of those, 13, 528 (48.8%) were previously diagnosed persons. Only 11.6% of previously diagnosed persons reported already being in HIV care; after excluding them, 62.1% of previously diagnosed persons were linked within 90 days. In addition, the percentage of previously diagnosed persons steadily increased from 2011 (25.9%) to 2015 (34.1%; P < 0.001). Conclusions: Almost half of all HIV-positive tests were among previously diagnosed persons, but only 11.6% were already in HIV care. Linkage is necessary among persons who already know their HIV status because they either were never linked or need to be reengaged into care. Barriers in linkage and retention among this group also need to be addressed. Abstract : Only 11.6% of previously diagnosed HIV-positive persons were already in HIV medical care. Linkage and retention strategies remain critical among this group.