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Rapid Screening of HIV Reverse Transcriptase and Integrase Inhibitors
Published on: April 9, 2014
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Pharmacist-provided rapid HIV testing in two community pharmacies.
Journal of the American Pharmacists Association : Japha
|November 22, 2014
Summary
Pharmacists can effectively provide rapid human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing in community pharmacies. This study found the service acceptable and feasible, with positive participant and pharmacist experiences.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Disease Prevention
- Community Pharmacy Practice
Background:
- Community pharmacies are accessible healthcare hubs.
- Rapid HIV testing offers a crucial early detection method.
- Integrating HIV testing into pharmacy services can expand access.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the acceptability and feasibility of pharmacist-led rapid HIV testing.
- To evaluate the implementation of HIV testing, counseling, and linkage services in community pharmacies.
Main Methods:
- A model for pharmacist-provided HIV testing, counseling, and referral was implemented.
- Testing was conducted in two diverse community pharmacies in Michigan.
- Key outcomes included test volume, service time, participant demographics, and perceptions.
Main Results:
- Pharmacists provided 69 HIV tests between October 2011 and March 2013.
- One participant (1.5%) tested reactive and was referred for confirmatory testing.
- Testing averaged 30 minutes; participants were diverse, with 42% receiving their first HIV test.
Conclusions:
- Pharmacist-provided rapid HIV testing is acceptable and feasible in community pharmacies.
- This model demonstrates potential for expanded HIV screening in accessible settings.
- Further development of such pharmacy-based HIV testing services is recommended.
