Implementing an intimate partner violence (IPV) screening protocol in HIV care

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• HIV and intimate partner violence (IPV) epidemics interact synergistically, worsening health outcomes.
• Understanding the impact of IPV on HIV management is crucial for effective care.
• A syndemic approach is needed to address the intertwined epidemics of HIV and IPV.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a universal intimate partner violence (IPV) screening program in an HIV clinic.
• To assess patient responsiveness and resource utilization following IPV screening.
• To provide recommendations for integrating IPV screening into routine HIV care.

Main Methods:

• A universal IPV screening protocol was implemented in the Southern Alberta Clinic.
• IPV data were collected from 1721 patients, supplemented by in-depth interviews with 158 patients.
• Prevalence rates of IPV were analyzed across different demographic groups.

Main Results:

• 35% of HIV patients reported experiencing IPV, with higher prevalence in females (46%), Aboriginal Canadians (67%), and bisexual individuals (48%).
• Only 22% of interviewed patients had been previously screened for IPV in healthcare settings.
• 23% of patients who disclosed IPV connected with additional support resources post-screening.

Conclusions:

• Universal IPV screening should be integrated into routine HIV clinic care.
• Screening should occur after establishing patient trust, with regular follow-up every 6-12 months.
• Accessible referral processes to local IPV agencies are essential for patients disclosing abuse.