Home-based HIV Counselling and Testing and Facilitated Referral in Uganda and South Africa

STATUS: Current
PROJECT LEADER:Van Rooyen, HE (Prof. Heidi)
OTHER TEAM MEMBERS: De Kock, C.J. (Ms Cilna), Van Heerden, AC (Dr Alastair), Ngubane, S.R. (Mr Mshini), Khumalo, M.C. (Mr Mbongiseni), Mbanjwa, MH (Mr Mbangeni), Dladla, PA (Ms Pumla), Joseph, PK (Mr Philip), Phakathi, Z.A. (Mr Zipho), Msomi, TB (Mr Thulani), Ntombela, PJ (Ms Tee), Mntambo, NLS (Ms Nomusa), Zondi, M.P. (Mr Mzamo), Mpila, H.L. (Ms Hlengiwe), Nkala, S (Mr Siyabonga), Ndebele, N.B.C. (Mr Buyani), Ngubane, TO (Mr Thulani), Nyawane, CL (Ms Lebo)
DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBLE: Public Health, Societies and Belonging (HSC)

Abstract

PEPFAR supplement funds will provide an opportunity to pilot HBCT in KZN and evaluate HBCT uptake and systems for linkage to ART care, impact of ART and counselling for HIV+ persons identified through HBCT on community viral load and risk behaviours. We shall conduct HBCT in Sinathingi and Vulindela. The 1 year timeline is feasible to implement and evaluate HBCT and ART linkages among 500 households; we have an IRB-approved protocol for our MP3 HBCT pilot in Uganda and are building on Project Accept infrastructure, staff and experience with home visits. Assess the feasibility and acceptability of home-based HIV testing (HBCT) in KwaZulu Natal in order to obtain high coverage of knowledge of HIV serostatus and link HIV+ persons to HIV care and presentation services. Develop and evaluate systems to increase linkages of HBCT newly-identified HIV+ persons to HIV care and ART. Evaluate the impact of facilitated ART referrals on ART retention, adherence, viral suppression, and sexual behaviour among HIV+ persons identified in HBCT who meet South African guidelines.

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