HIV Risk and Sociodemographic Factors Associated with Physician-Advised HIV Testing: What Factors Are Overlooked in African American Populations?

Abstract

HIV is diagnosed at eight times the rate in African Americans (AAs) compared to whites. One-third of AAs have never been tested for HIV. Studies indicate low rates of HIV testing in healthcare settings, so understanding missed opportunities for HIV testing can inform prevention effortsin these settings. Our study examined predictors of self-reported physician-advised HIV testing using baseline survey data (N = 1500) from Taking It to the Pews (TIPS), a church-basedHIV/STD testing and education intervention. One-third (33%) of participants reported that their physician ever suggested an HIV test. Results indicated that participants who identified as homosexual/bisexual, received Medicaid or were uninsured, and/or had previously diagnosed STDs were more likely to report physician-advised HIV testing. AA churches provide a unique opportunity to increase the reach of HIV testing and may bewell-positioned to equip their church and community members with information on HIV risk and strategies to advocate for physician-advised routine HIV testing in medical settings.