Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic on HIV/AIDS Testing and Treatment

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on HIV testing, diagnosis, treatment, and care in Nagpur, India by analyzing trends across patient data from 2017-2021. The goal was to outline challenges and future policy measures to mitigate disruptions and improve engagement of individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Materials and Methods: Data were analyzed for 971 diagnosed HIV/AIDS patients undergoing antiretroviral therapy at the Government Medical College's Integrated Counseling and Testing Centre and Antiretroviral Therapy Centre in Nagpur, spanning 2017-2021. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate trends in key parameters - HIV screening, positivity rates, patient characteristics, ICTC-ART linkages, treatment outcomes. Appropriate ethical guidelines were adhered to. Results: Notable declines in HIV testing and positivity rates were observed during the COVID-19 period. Changes in patient demographic distribution and service gaps (drop in eligible spouse testing; ICTC-ART linkage gaps) indicated likely challenges in care access and engagement during the pandemic. Issues also emerged in critical areas including ART adherence, loss to follow-ups, and cessation of treatment over 2019-2021. Discussion: The results underscore pandemic-related disruptions faced by HIV care systems, potentially stemming from lockdowns, restrictions, and healthcare service limitations. Addressing detriments through multi-faceted approaches is imperative - improved ICTC-ART linkages, adoption of telemedicine/multi-month ART models and decentralized care can aid optimization of HIV care delivery during outbreaks. The learnings can inform the development of resilient health systems equipped to support vulnerable groups through co-occurring epidemics. Keywords: COVID-19, healthcare utilization, ICTCs (Integrated counseling and testing centers), linkage, pandemic, patient retention, service gaps, HIV/AIDS, vulnerable populations.