HIV testing trends: Southeastern Pennsylvania, 2002-2010.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended opt-out HIV testing in 2006 to facilitate early detection and care.
• Limited data exist on HIV testing trends following the 2006 CDC recommendations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate temporal trends in HIV testing among adults in Southeastern Pennsylvania from 2002 to 2010.
• To assess changes in HIV testing patterns after the implementation of CDC's opt-out HIV testing recommendations.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from the Southeastern Pennsylvania Household Health Survey (2002-2010).
• Inclusion of 50,698 adult respondents (≥18 years).
• Examination of HIV testing prevalence and trends across demographic groups and healthcare settings.

Main Results:

• Overall HIV testing increased from 42.1% in 2002 to 51.4% in 2010 (p<0.001).
• Testing increased across all demographics, but pre-2006 disparities persisted, with younger individuals, racial/ethnic minorities, and Medicaid patients more likely to be tested.
• Black individuals and those seeking care in community health centers showed the most significant rise in HIV testing rates.

Conclusions:

• HIV testing has increased, particularly among ethnic minorities and in community health centers, following CDC recommendations.
• Despite increases, disparities in HIV testing persist, highlighting the need for further improvements across all demographic groups and clinic types.