Testing is the first and most crucial step in the HIV treatment cascade. Rapid point-of-care HIV testing allows people to test and learn their HIV status during the same visit. A review of the evidence supports the impact of rapid point-of-care testing on HIV testing uptake, acceptability, receipt of results and other outcomes.
A number of Canadian programs offer rapid point-of-care testing in non-clinical settings, including dental clinics, street fairs and prisons.
The Anonymous HIV Testing Program offers a rapid, anonymous HIV testing service in partnership with local organizations that have expertise with clients most at-risk for HIV.
Three Vancouver dental clinics introduce rapid HIV screening in their practices.
An anonymous rapid POC HIV testing pilot offered testing in two Ontario correctional facilities.
A peer-based program offered low-barrier HIV testing and connection to care through street fairs and in community organizations.
Programming Connection webinar: New HIV testing approaches
This webinar recording features program planners explaining how they have implemented new approaches to HIV testing in a wide range of venues: dental clinics, prisons, pharmacies and more.