Facilitators and Barriers to HIV Screening: A Qualitative Meta-Synthesis

Accomplishments in biomedical research and technology, combined with innovative community and clinically based interventions, have expanded HIV testing globally. However, HIV screening and receipt of results remains a challenge in some areas. To optimize the benefits of HIV screening, it is imperative that there is a better understanding of the barriers to and motivators of testing for HIV infection. This study is a meta-synthesis of the qualitative literature on HIV screening and receipt of results; 128 unique publications had implications for HIV screening and receipt of results. A socioecological perspective provided an appropriate approach for synthesizing the literature. Three levels of influence emerged: individual attributes, interpersonal attributes, and broader patterns of influence. Findings were reviewed and found to have implications for continued engagement in the HIV treatment cascade. Recommendations to enhance HIV screening and to ensure receipt of results are proposed and discussed.